Hi °C | Lo °C 
A man accused of raping a child under the age of 13 appeared at Larne Magistrates Court yesterday.
Michael George McNeilly (22), of Beachland, Carnlough, is also facing a further three charges in connection with two separate incidents that allegedly occurred in the Larne area this month.
Yesterday there were angry scenes outside the Co Antrim courthouse. A crowd had gathered at the gates of the venue and shouted abuse at the defendant as he arrived at court.
McNeilly, who covered his face from view as he was led into the court, stands accused of one count of rape against a child under the age of 13 and two counts of sexual assault in relation to an alleged incident that occurred on May 15.
He was also charged with trying to incite a child between the ages of 13 and 16 into sexual activity in a separate incident which was said to have occurred between May 15 and May 18.
During the hearing yesterday the defendant, who was dressed in a navy blue and white Nike tracksuit jacket and blue denim jeans, did not speak when the charges were read out but instead stared blankly across the courtroom.
A detective investigating the case told the court he could connect the accused to the incidents.
As he left court, the defendant again shielded his face as a crowd shouted more abuse and attacked the transport van as it drove off.
McNeilly was remanded into custody and is expected to re-appear at Larne Courthouse via videolink on June 18.
