TIERNAN CORVAN FROM LARNE GRANTED WEEKLY VISITATION TO ILL GRANDFATHER IN CO ARMAGH DESPITE SEXUAL OFFENCES CHARGES

In a recent development in the ongoing legal case involving 19-year-old Tiernan Corvan from Larne, a modified form of bail has been approved to permit him to visit his ailing grandfather. Corvan, who is currently facing serious allegations of sexual offences, has been charged with raping a woman on December 30, 2022, and also with sexually assaulting a second woman sometime between August 31 and October 1, 2021. As the case proceeds to trial, Corvan has been granted limited travel rights to see his grandfather, who is 84 years old and recently discharged from hospital.

During a hearing held at Belfast Crown Court on August 14, the court considered Corvan’s request to extend his visits. While the court approved his weekly travel from Larne to County Armagh, it rejected a proposal for him to stay overnight at his grandfather’s residence. The presiding judge, Richard Greene KC, explained that although the application for regular visits was not opposed, the overnight stay raised concerns due to the proximity of the two complainants involved in the allegations against Corvan.

Robin Steer KC, representing the Crown, clarified that evidence presented indicated Corvan’s grandfather had only been discharged from hospital 12 days prior to the hearing. The defence, led by Barrister Dessie Hutton KC, highlighted the family’s belief that the grandfather’s time was limited and emphasized the importance of allowing Corvan to spend meaningful time with his family during this critical period. Hutton assured the court that Corvan would not be wandering the streets but would remain at his grandfather’s home during visits. He also explained that Corvan planned to travel by train to Portadown, where a relative would meet him and escort him directly to his grandfather’s residence, minimizing any risk of contact with others.

Ultimately, Judge Greene granted the request for weekly visits, allowing Corvan to see his grandfather once a week. However, the court denied the overnight stay, citing concerns over the safety and privacy of the complainants. The judge also ordered that the two women involved in the allegations be notified in advance of the specific days Corvan would be visiting County Armagh, ensuring transparency and oversight in the ongoing legal process.