Friday, October 22, 2010

Priest charged with sexually abusing boys

A Catholic priest has appeared in court charged with sexually abusing two boys. 

Fr James Martin Donaghy, 52, pleaded not guilty to charges including 13 counts of sexual assault.

He is alleged to have abused one boy between June and August 1983 and the other from May 1994 to December 2001.

The priest, of Lady Wallace Drive in Lisburn, stepped down from his ministry at the Most Holy Redeemer Church, Ballyholme, County Down, in March 2004 after allegations emerged.

He is still regarded as a member of the Catholic clergy.

Prosecution and defence lawyers told Belfast Crown Court numerous applications would be dealt with before the trial date in January next year.

SIC: BBC/NI