Paul Gerry McGonnell, 26, returned for trial over alleged assault in Derrynoose

A 26-year-old man has been returned for trial in connection with an alleged assault said to have taken place more than three years ago.

Paul Gerry McGonnell, of Killyliss Manor, Eglish, who is currently remanded in custody, appeared before Armagh Magistrates' Court for a committal hearing.

McGonnell faces a number of charges arising from an incident alleged to have occurred in Derrynoose on June 13, 2023. He is accused of causing actual bodily harm to a man, possessing an agricultural grape as an offensive weapon and causing damage to the alleged injured party's clothing and a door at his home.

During the hearing, a prosecuting lawyer told the court there was a case to answer in relation to the charges. Deputy District Judge Austin Kennedy agreed and formally returned the defendant for trial.

Committal proceedings are held to determine whether there is sufficient evidence for a case to proceed to the Crown Court. At this stage, the court does not decide on guilt or innocence, nor does it hear the full evidence that may later be presented at trial.

McGonnell spoke only to confirm his identity and that he understood the charges against him. He did not seek to give evidence and declined the opportunity to call witnesses on his own behalf during the committal proceedings.

No details of the prosecution case were outlined in court beyond the charges before him, and no findings have been made regarding the allegations.

Following the hearing, Judge Kennedy remanded McGonnell in continuing custody.

The case was sent forward to Newry Crown Court, where McGonnell is due to appear for arraignment on November 17. At that hearing, he will be asked to enter pleas to the charges.

The allegations remain before the courts, and McGonnell is presumed innocent unless and until the charges are proven.