Man remanded in custody to Derry Crown Court on rape charge

A 31-year-old man is to appear at Derry Crown Court next month after appearing at the city’s Magistrates Court this morning accused of raping a Derry woman, being in possession of a hammer and causing her grievous bodily harm.

Aaron Hyland, of St Katherine’s Road in Ballymurphy, Belfast, is also accused of possessing cannabis and threatening to kill a police officer.

He is also accused of assaulting the officer.

The alleged offences are said to have taken place on October 3 last year.

During a preliminary enquiry at Derry Magistrates Court this morning, Hyland’s solicitor accepted he had a prima facie case to answer.

When asked if he wished to say anything on reply to the charges, call any witnesses or give any evidence on his own behalf, he indicated he did “not at this stage” of proceedings.

Hyland was remanded in custody at Maghaberry Prison to appear before Derry Crown Court for his arraignment on October 20.