More potential victims in voyeurism and indecent child imagery case

Police are investigating if there are more potential victims in the case of a teenager who has appeared in court in relation to offences of voyeurism and indecent child imagery, some of which date back over three years.

The update came as the judge noted the accused has not attended court on a number of occasions contending he is under threat but there has been no evidence to substantiate this.

In order of alleged occurrence John Stokes (18) from Sycamore Heights, Dungannon, is accused of possessing an extreme pornographic image on March 23, 2023.

The following year, on April 16, 2024, Stokes is accused of taking and possessing an indecent image of a child.

Finally, on dates between January 1 and February 20, 2025, he is alleged to have observed a person doing a private act knowing that they did not consent, for the purposes of his own sexual gratification.

A prosecuting lawyer previously told Dungannon Magistrates Court the matter is being handled by a senior departmental officer given the nature of the allegations.

Defence lawyers had requested Stokes be excused from attending court hearings due to alleged threats and pointing out he was required to leave his address when the charges became known.

However at the most recent sitting, District Judge Francis Rafferty said, “If the excusal is to continue I would need to see something more concrete. Otherwise the defendant will appear on the next occasion.

“So far the police have indicated there are no threats which they are aware of. If that changes in the interim consideration will be afforded but for now he will appear.”

Stokes was remanded on continuing bail to attend on October 30.