Former GAA club treasurer set for trial on historic sex abuse charges
A former GAA club treasurer is to go on trial facing 17 charges of historic sex abuse against two alleged victims.
Thomas McKenna who is originally from Crossmaglen but whose address was given as HM Prison Maghaberry, appeared at Newry Magistrates’ Court via videolink from Magilligan Prison.
He faces 14 charges of indecent assault against the first injured party, which are alleged to have been committed between February 24, 1993 and February 25 2000.
McKenna is also accused of committing indecent assault, sexual assault and causing a person to engage in sexual activity involving penetration without their consent, between July 31, 2001 and September 30, 2015 in relation to the second complainant.
The 64-year-old appeared before Newry Magistrates' Court last week for the purposes of a Preliminary Enquiry – the process by which a case moves to the higher court.
He spoke to confirm his name and address and that he understood the charges when his case was heard during the sitting.
Prosecution submitted that based on the papers before the court there was a prima facie case to answer. Defence counsel made no contrary submissions.
District Judge Eamonn King, satisfied there was a prima facie case to answer, remanded McKenna into custody to appear before Newry Crown Court on July 2.