Man (38) remanded over alleged rape of teenage girl in Ballymena

A 38-year-old man has appeared in court charged with the alleged rape of a teenage girl in Ballymena, following an investigation into a serious sexual assault in the Ballykeel area last month.

Crisos Sonet, whose address is listed as Clarence Street, Ballymena, was brought before Coleraine Magistrates’ Court on Friday 27 June, in connection with an alleged offence that occurred on 24 May 2025.

Short hearing and custody remand

During the brief hearing, a police officer told the court he believed he could connect the accused to the charge. Sonet confirmed his date of birth and replied “Yes” when asked if he understood the single charge of rape.

No application for bail was made by the defence, and Deputy District Judge Peter Prenter remanded the defendant in custody. The case was adjourned to Ballymena Magistrates’ Court on 24 July.

No details regarding the alleged background or circumstances of the incident were outlined in court during the hearing.

Linked investigation: Police statement

While the court proceedings revealed limited information, a prior police statement released by the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) stated:

“Detectives investigating the report of a serious sexual assault of a teenage girl in the Ballykeel area on Saturday 24th May, have charged a second man in his 30s to court.”

This follows an earlier appearance by Garry Luna (36), also of Clarence Street, who was charged earlier this week in connection with the same investigation. Luna faces five offences, including sexual assault, inciting a child to engage in sexual activity, and facilitating sexual activity involving a child.

Ongoing police investigation

The PSNI have confirmed that investigations remain ongoing, with specialist officers continuing to provide support to the alleged victim and gathering further evidence.

Both men are currently remanded in custody as the case progresses through the courts.

Keep up to date at Court News NI.