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Man accused of two counts of rape to face Crown Court in December

Craigavon Magistrates Court

A man accused of two counts of rape has heard that he will face Crown Court proceedings next month.

The 31-year-old is alleged to have committed both offences back in June of 2018.

Kieran Vige, of Wesley Street in Lisburn, appeared facing the two charges at Craigavon Magistrates’ on Friday.

As the charges were read, it was heard that both offences are alleged to have occurred on June 29, of 2018, and relate to the same female.

The defendant is accused of having sexual intercourse with a female who did not consent, and that he did “not reasonably” believe that she so consented.

Appearing the the body of the court, Vige 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 barrister David McKeown made no contrary submissions.

Although the court clerk informed the defendant he had the right to comment on the charges and to call evidence to the PE on his behalf, he declined the opportunity.

District Judge Peter Magill released the defendant on continuing bail to appear before Craigavon Crown Court on December 15 for arraignment.

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