A Loughgall man has been refused permission to vary his bail address to return to his home village for the “wellbeing of himself and his extended family”.
Court heard the 58-year-old had wanted to return in order to look after his elderly mother for whom he had been the main carer.
Thomas Ronald Rowe, of Orchard Park, appeared charged with sexual assault at Armagh Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday.
Court heard that the defendant wished to reside with his mother in Loughgall, which was contrary to one of his bail conditions.
Defence solicitor Jarlath Fields stated this was to aid in the care of Rowe’s 80-year-old mother.
Court heard the defendant currently resided in hostel accommodation in Lisburn.
A constable stated that it was not just the injured party who was being protected by this bail condition.
She stated: “It is the fact he wishes to live with his elderly mother, we worry about her safety as this is a contained community who are aware of these allegations.”
District Judge Paul Copeland commented: “I do not consider this appropriate, I am rejecting bail because of the possible adverse attention which could be received.
“I am not willing to compromise the wellbeing of himself or his extended family.”
He added: “I am prioritising that the safety of a child is upheld.”
The case will return on November 20 for an update of the file from the serious crime unit.
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