A Lurgan man accused of assaulting his heavily pregnant partner will face Crown Court proceedings later this year.
The 25-year-old appeared at Craigavon Magistrates’ Court for the purposes of a preliminary enquiry (PE), the legal process during which a case is referred to the higher court.
Shea Haughian, from Glenholme Avenue, is charged with three counts of common assault and one count of making a threat to kill.
As the charges were read, it was heard that the offences were alleged to have been committed on September 24 and 25, of last year, and all related to the same female.
Previous courts have heard claims that Haughian became violent after returning from work, drinking a bottle of Buckfast and seeking more money.
“She alleged that he attacked her in the property following a row over alcohol,” said prosecuting counsel Mark Farrell, adding that when called to the house, officers observed cuts to her nose and lip, as well as bruising to her arm.
Appearing in court via videolink from Maghaberry, Haughian made no objection to the holding of a preliminary enquiry.
Prosecution submitted that based on the papers before the court there was a prima facie case to answer.
Defence counsel made no contrary submissions.
Deputy District Judge Greg McCourt, satisfied there was a prima facie case to answer, remanded the defendant in custody to appear at Craigavon Crown Court on May 5.
