A Craigavon man who is accused of damaging a van by way of fire will face Crown Court proceedings next month.
The 33-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.
Emanuel Whitla, of Pinebank, is charged with a single count of arson.
As the charges were read, it was heard that on May 19, of 2020, the defendant was alleged to have damaged or destroyed by fire a LDV Maxus Van
Appearing in his solicitor’s office, Whitla 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 solicitor Conor Downey made no contrary submissions.
Deputy District Judge Greg McCourt , satisfied there was a prima facie case to answer, released the defendant on his own bail of £500 to appear at Craigavon Crown Court on April 5.
