Defendant fails to show for murder case hearing

A court hearing in Strabane, Co Tyrone, yesterday, in connection with the murder of 15-year-old Castlederg schoolgirl Arlene …

A court hearing in Strabane, Co Tyrone, yesterday, in connection with the murder of 15-year-old Castlederg schoolgirl Arlene Arkinson, had to be adjourned when the defendant was unable to attend the court because of transportation difficulties at Maghaberry Prison. The schoolgirl disappeared in August 1994.

Robert Lesarian Howard (59), who is originally from Co Laois, was due to appear at Strabane Magistrates Court yesterday morning for a committal hearing. The case was adjourned to Omagh Magistrates Court on August 26th.