By M&M News Services
A Co Antrim man is to stand trial next year for the murder of a retired schoolteacher, a court heard today (Friday).
Michael Gerard Owens appeared at Antrim Crown Court, sitting in Belfast, where he denied murdering 64-year old Robert Flowerday.
The body of the retired Antrim Grammar schoolteacher was found in his home on Mill Road in Crumlin last January.
Owens (34), from Lisburn Road in Glenavy, was charged with murdering Mr Flowerday on a date between January 27 and 30, 2018, and of breaking into the deceased's home with intent to steal.
When the charges were put to the accused by a court clerk today, he replied "not guilty" to both offences.
Crown prosecutor David McDowell QC confirmed that a date for trial has been set as January 13, 2020.
John McCrudden QC, the barrister representing Owens, said the defence was seeking forensic reports, and that a defence statement could be served at the end of September.
Mr Justice Colton agreed to list the case for mention in September, then said: "The defendant can be returned to custody."
Swann refuses to rule out resigning if budget is not changed
Fresh inquests ordered into deaths of 15 killed in McGurk’s bomb blast
Trial ends after man accused of murder of young showjumper is found dead
A brief hearing and chaotic scenes as Donaldson makes first court appearance