New information has come to light in the case of a Fermanagh woman charged with child cruelty, which relates to allegations of encouraging the consumption of drugs and sexual activity with another person.  

The woman, who cannot be identified to protect the alleged victim, is accused of ill-treating a child in a manner likely to cause unnecessary suffering or injury to health.  

Dungannon Magistrates Court heard offending is alleged to have occurred over a four-month period between December 2017 and April 2018.

Previously, District Judge Michael Ranaghan expressed concerns that the case was not moving to crown court and requested a senior prosecutor to review it.

However following an adjournment to allow for this, the decision remained unchanged.

At the most recent hearing, on being advised of new information Judge Ranaghan suggested the matter again be examined as to the appropriate venue pointing out: “I do not feel my sentencing powers are sufficient in the event of conviction. It sends out the wrong message. I’ve made my position clear. Cases such as this should be in crown court.”

A defence barrister said his client would be contesting the charge.

Judge Ranaghan listed the case for mention next month, but stressed the importance of having his concerns relayed at senior level in the Public Prosecution Service.