Armagh GAA player Aidan Nugent has been returned for trial in relation to multiple sexual charges alleged to have occurred in the United States while his team were celebrating winning the All Ireland final.
Thirty-one-year-old Nugent from Cullyhanna Road, Newtownhamilton appeared for a committal hearing where he was charged with seven counts of sexually assaulting a female and a single count of a more serious sexual assault involving penetration.
Offending is alleged to have occurred on November 17, 2024.
A prosecuting lawyer told Armagh Magistrates Court sitting in Newry that there is a case to answer which was agreed by District Judge Anne Marshall.
Nugent spoke only to confirm his identity and confirm he understood the charges.
He declined to call witnesses or give evidence on his own behalf at this stage in proceedings.
A defence solicitor told the court, “The allegations are strenuously denied.”
Judge Marshall remanded Nugent on continuing bail of £500 to appear at Newry Crown Court on October 22.
And, applying for Legal Aid to be extended to cover both junior and senior counsel the defence contended this is necessary because one charge has the potential for life imprisonment if convicted and: “Given that all persons involved in this matter are in the public eye and there’s a real risk to reputation, plus the risk of loss of livelihood if convicted of any of the offences.”
Judge Marshall reserved her decision at this stage.
