The file against a Co Down man accused of raping his baby son is with a “senior prosecutor for consideration”, a judge has heard.

Deputy District Judge Steven Keown also heard from the PPS that while a report from a consultant paediatrician has been received, "there are some outstanding medical statements... and the directing officer has highlighted the prospect of further expert evidence."

Appearing at Newry Magistrates Court via videolink on Wednesday the 25-year-old defendant, who cannot be named to protect his alleged victim, is charged with sexually assaulting his two-week-old son on September 29 last year and with inflicting grievous bodily harm on the baby with intent.

The court previously heard how the child was found with broken ribs and thigh bones and was taken to hospital with unexplained injuries including a brain haemorrhage, a number of broken bones, traumatic bruising and bleeding.

The defendant denies sexually assaulting the infant and an unsuccessful bail hearing at the High Court heard how he claimed he may have unintentionally hit the child’s head on a wall while "tired and frustrated".

The High Court also heard claims police allegedly discovered extreme pornographic material and indecent images of children on a phone linked to the accused.

In court on Wednesday, the prosecution asked for the case to be adjourned for four weeks but said despite the outstanding reports and statements, "it is hoped that a decision can be taken before these are submitted".

Remanding the alleged rapist back into custody to appear again on March 13, Judge Keown said that in the best occasion he wanted to be updated regarding "progress towards a decision and hopefully fix a PE date."

Belfast Telegraph