A man arrested after a so-called pedophile sting was refused bail after applying to live near a children’s playground. Kevin Christy of Park Road, Portadown,

Kevin Christy, of Park Road, Portadown, is charged with attempting to engage in sexual contact with a child and improper use of a telecommunications network.

The crimes occurred between May and September last year.

He was arrested after a “sting” by a group calling itself Child Warriors, which posts videos online of confrontations with alleged pedophiles.

The trial was told that citizens, including some teenagers, had threatened to burn Christy’s sister out of her home because of his alleged crimes.

According to a police officer, his innocent siblings made 13 calls to the PSNI in connection with threats.

Defense lawyer Conor Lunny told the court that the PSNI had opposed two proposed bails in Portadown and that it would be “difficult” to secure his client’s release.

He emphasized that Christy suffered from learning difficulties and had no criminal record.

Mr Lunny added that even if his client was offered a hostel place, it might not be suitable due to his difficulties.

He told the court there was potentially a relative’s address in Cookstown, but Christy would prefer to live with her mother or sister.

He continued: “There’s just no room available for him (in the area).”

Mr Lunny also told the court that while in custody for two months his client had “struggled” and his client had become “completely isolated” in Maghaberry Prison.

However, an anti-bail officer expressed concerns that public disorder could break out if Christy was allowed to remain in the area.

They also noticed that there was a children’s playground nearby.

Refusing bail and ordering Christa remanded in custody, District Judge Michael Ranaghan adjourned the case for a week and advised the defendant to consider his proposed bail address in Cookstown.