Martin Beattie from Shantonagh Road in Fivemiletown faces 13 charges of failing to retain multiple animal carcasses before disposal. The alleged offences cover dates from January 17, 2022, to January 30, 2024.

Beattie also faces six charges of causing unnecessary suffering to animals. Additional charges include one count of failing to produce a record of veterinary medicines and one count of failing to comply with a notice on animal by-products.

The charges appeared before Dungannon Magistrates' Court. A defence barrister stated that Beattie denies all counts.

Prosecutors told the court that the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs plans to seek a Disqualification Order. The order would ban Beattie from owning cattle if he is convicted.

The court heard that DAERA officials number among the significant witnesses. District Judge Francis Rafferty set a contest date of May 18.