A 91-year-old Co Armagh man has had his arraignment for historic sex charges adjourned due to ill health.
John Joseph Toman, Deramore Drive, Lurgan, was due to enter a plea at Craigavon Crown Court on Thursday, in relation a plethora of charges dating back to 1966.
He is accused of ten charges of indecent assault on a female and two charges of attempted rape – again of the same female.
The ten charges are dated between July 11, 1966, and July 12, 1972 where he allegedly indecently assaulted the victim.
There are also two allegations of attempted rape during the same period.
Defence barrister Ronan Lavery stated the adjournment was being applied for due to “a number of medical conditions” from which the defendant suffered from.
Mr Lavery said that wished to have a medical examination to be completed prior to the trial.
His Honour Judge Patrick Lynch commented: “I currently have three elderly defendants with a number of health conditions who may never get to trial.
“But that’s by the by.”
Mr Lavery asked that six to eight weeks were given for a medical report to be compiled.
Prosecution stated they “appreciated this stance” and rose no objection.
The case will return to court on December 7 for an update with the view of a trial on December 17.
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