Frederick John Stanley English, 76, of Glenview Drive in Lurgan, faces a charge of attempted sexual communication with a child. The allegation covers the period from May 2 to May 31, 2023.

Craigavon Magistrates Court heard the charge on Friday. It states English intentionally attempted to communicate with multiple female decoys believed to be under 16 years old. The communications were sexual or intended to encourage sexual responses from them. English did not reasonably believe the decoys were 16 or older. The purpose was obtaining sexual gratification.

The defendant remains on continuing bail. The case adjourned to March 27 for a preliminary enquiry to determine transfer to Crown Court.