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Two Romanian teenagers, previously charged with attempted rape in an incident that led to racially charged riots throughout Northern Ireland, have had the charges against them dropped. The boys, aged 14 and 15, were accused of trying to assault a schoolgirl in Ballymena, County Antrim, on June 7. Earlier court sessions included allegations that the victim was pulled into an alleyway and garage but managed to escape when the suspects fled after being disturbed.
On Friday, at Belfast Youth Court, the Public Prosecution Service (PPS) was granted permission to discontinue the case against the teenagers due to substantial new evidence. As a result, the two boys will be released from the juvenile detention facility where they have been held for over five months. Another individual suspected of involvement reportedly fled to Romania the day after the incident. Due to their ages, none of the accused may be publicly identified.
The initial allegations triggered widespread unrest marked by racially motivated violence, beginning in Ballymena and spreading to other areas of Northern Ireland. During the disturbances, incidents such as car burnings and property damage, including fires at residences, were reported. The Public Prosecution Service issued a statement explaining that recent evidential developments meant the case no longer met the standard required for prosecution, leading to the decision to drop charges. They also confirmed that the prosecution team met with the complainant and her family to inform them of the decision.
Defense lawyers did not oppose the withdrawal of charges, with one counsel asserting that the sooner the juvenile center is informed, the sooner the youths can be released. District Judge George Conner acknowledged the sensitive nature of the case and indicated it was best to minimize public commentary. Detective Chief Inspector Stephanie Finlay emphasized that all reported sexual crimes are treated seriously and thoroughly investigated, encouraging victims to come forward for support and urging the public to remain respectful and avoid speculation, especially on social media, following the court’s ruling
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