Missing girl found in rape accused's bed
Editorial Department • Published 9 Aug 2012 12:30
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A 19-year-old alleged rapist accused of squeezing the stomach of his six-months pregnant 17-year-old girlfriend may be released on bail if he finds somewhere suitable to live.
Kevin Williamson, from Galliagh Park, Enniskillen, was already on bail on charges of rape, sexual assault and being involved in sexual activity with a minor when he allegedly attacked his girlfriend.
The High Court in Belfast heard that she has since withdrawn the assault complaint against Williamson and was found in bed with him after going missing from the children's home where she was staying.
A police constable had previously told Fermanagh Magistrate's Court that Williamson's partner had accused him of pulling her by the hair, punching her in the face and squeezing her abdomen.
The officer said she had indicated another assault had also taken place earlier.
Defence solicitor, Mr. Conor Heaney, explained that the girl and the defendant were in a relationship together and she was six months pregnant with his child. She had made contact with him complaining of pains associated generally with the pregnancy and an altercation took place.
Williamson was remanded in custody to appear at Fermanagh Court by video link on August 20.
However, he went to the High Court on Monday seeking to be released on bail.
Prosecutor, Mrs. Kate McKay, said police located the girl in a distressed state at Williamson's home on July 28. She claimed he had grabbed and squeezed her stomach and pulled out her hair extensions following a row between them.
Hospital checks confirmed no harm has been caused to the unborn child.
The girl was subsequently reported missing by the children's home where she was staying and a day later police found her in bed with Williamson.
Mrs. McKay said the "very vulnerable" girl had withdrawn her complaint against Williamson.
Defence barrister, Mr. Denis Boyd, told the court Williamson only agreed to meet the girl following the initial incident because she rang complaining of pains.
He revealed that Williamson suffered from attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and has low intelligence.
"He denies these current allegations," Mr. Boyd added.
The judge, Mr. Justice Gillen, indicated that he was minded to release Williamson on bail. However, he adjourned the bail application until an address is found in a different town from the alleged victim.
He stated: "This woman is six months pregnant. I'm concerned not only for her safety, but this unborn child."
This article appeared in Impartial Reporter 09 Aug 12
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