Man to face trial on three charges of sexual activity with a child under 16 years

A man will go on trial next year on three charges of sexual activity with a child under 16 years of age while in a position of trust.

John Patrick Beckett (44) with an address that was given to the court appeared at Derry Crown Court today.

He was charged with three counts of sexual activity with a child while in a position of trust on a date between January 1 February 23, 2023.

When the charges were put to him he pleaded not guilty. 

Defence counsel Stephen Mooney said that the trial should last up to four days. 

A date was set for the hearing for February 19 next year and the defendant was released on bail.