Ex-DUP aide on sex charges

David McConaghie, 49, was accused of installing equipment or adapting a structure to enable him to observe, for sexual gratification, another person doing a private act between January and September 2012, contrary to sexual offences legislation.

He formerly worked for Upper Bann MP David Simpson in Craigavon.

District judge Mervyn Bates released him on bail but warned him not to contact any staff member of the DUP advice centre in Portadown, directly or indirectly, either by phone or social media.

The judge at Craigavon Magistrates’ Court added: “You are not to possess a mobile phone or other device capable of taking video recordings.”

A police constable said he could connect McConaghie to the charges.

Judge Bates added: “The nature of this case may be very complex.”

The defendant is now unemployed, his solicitor told the court. He once worked for Mr Simpson as a press officer and speech writer.

McConaghie, from Cottage Hill, Dollingstown, County Armagh, was an ordained member of the Free Presbyterian Church and a member of the Independent Orange Order.

He would have attended various events in the Banbridge area.

He was released on his own bail of £500 and is to reappear in court in November.