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Man accused of causing fear of violence with sawn-off shotgun to face Crown Court

Two accused released on continuing bail to appear before Newry Crown Court in November

Newry courthouse police

A man accused of causing fear of violence with a sawn-off shotgun and damaging cars will face Crown Court proceedings next month.

Charles McDonagh, 19, of Tullymongan in Co Cavan, and John Ward, 43, of Ganna Mews, Warrenpoint, are both charged with criminal damage.

Meanwhile, McDonagh faces a further allegation of possessing a firearm with intent to cause fear of violence.

Both defendants appeared at Newry Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday for the purposes of a preliminary enquiry (PE), the legal process during which a case is referred to the higher court.

As the charges were read, it was heard that both men are alleged to have damaged cars belonging to a female on February 27, of this year.

On the same date, McDonagh is also accused of possessing a sawn-off shotgun with intent to cause another person to believe that unlawful violence would be used against them.

Both McDonagh appearing in court and Ward via videolink from his solicitor’s office, 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.

District Judge Eamonn King said that he was satisfied there was a prima facie case to answer.

Both men were released on continuing bail to appear before Newry Crown Court on November 9 for arraignment.

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