Family members accused of sexual misconduct, with the father and daughter set to face legal proceedings.
In a shocking turn of events, a father and daughter from Belfast have been brought to trial for allegedly sexually abusing a family member over a four-year period. The alleged offences, spanning between 2006 and 2009, have resulted in more than 60 charges following a three-year investigation.
The two defendants, aged in their 70s and 50s respectively, appeared remotely at Belfast Magistrates' Court for a preliminary inquiry hearing. During the hearing, both defendants confirmed they understood the allegations against them, and defense lawyers accepted that a prima facie case has been established by the prosecution.
The charges include multiple counts of gross indecency with a child, indecent assault, inciting a child family member into sexual activity, and aiding and abetting the abuse. The defendants are jointly accused of incest due to their relationship as father and daughter.
The investigation involved examining up to 100 electronic devices, including computer hard drives, laptops, and mobile phones, for any images or material related to the case. The man is further charged with possessing indecent photographs of a child and extreme pornography at around the time of his arrest in 2022.
No further details were disclosed during the hearing, and the alleged victim's identity is protected in the trial. The devices searched were intended to gather evidence to support the charges.
Both defendants declined to provide evidence or call witnesses at this stage. Judge Conner confirmed senior counsel would be appointed to represent them due to the seriousness of the charges.
When asked if he wanted to say anything in response to the charges, the man replied: "No thank you, other than I am guilty."
Both defendants are currently in custody. The case is set to continue, with the next hearing scheduled for a later date.
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