Two teenage boys charged with attempted rape following Ballymena sexual assault

Coleraine Magistrates’ Court

Two Romanian teenagers, both aged 14, have been charged with the attempted rape of a female in connection with a serious sexual assault reported in Ballymena over the weekend.

The incident, which took place in the Clonavon Terrace area of the town, was reported to have occurred between 7.30pm and 10.30pm on Saturday, 7 June.

The boys, who cannot be named due to their age, appeared before Coleraine Magistrates’ Court on Monday morning via video link from custody. They are each charged with the attempted oral rape of a female.

During the court proceedings, the pair spoke through an interpreter to confirm their names, ages, and that they understood the charges against them.

A police officer told the court she could connect the defendants to the charge and noted that a third potential suspect, believed to be of a similar age, remains outstanding.

A defence solicitor representing both accused told the court that no application for bail would be made at this time, citing the absence of a suitable address. The solicitor added that “during police interview both boys denied the offences”.

District Judge Peter King remanded the teenagers into custody, ordering them to reappear at the next sitting of the Youth Court in Ballymena on 2 July. The judge also advised that should a suitable bail address become available in the interim, a “bring forward” application could be lodged.

This case comes amid heightened concern within the Ballymena community following recent reports of sexual offences. The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) continues to investigate the incident, and have urged the public to avoid speculation while legal proceedings are ongoing.

The investigation is ongoing and anyone with information relevant to the case is encouraged to contact the PSNI.