McIlveen suspects 'under threat'

Michael McIlveen died after being attacked in Ballymena

Death threats have been issued to the seven people charged over the death of Ballymena teenager Michael McIlveen, the High Court has heard.

The revelation was made by a Crown lawyer in a case involving the only defendant to be granted bail.

The 16-year-old juvenile was accused of fighting and causing an affray before the 15-year-old was murdered last May.

His application to get bail revoked was granted as he could no longer live with his grandparents for domestic reasons.

The boy had been released earlier this month to live with them in England after the court was told that it was unsafe for him to return to his Ballymena home.

The boy's solicitor applied to have his bail revoked from Thursday, when he is due to return to Northern Ireland for a remand hearing.

The judge said he was reluctant to do this, as the courts were under an obligation to young people to try and ensure they remained in a family environment.

Although he did revoke bail, he said the case would be reviewed on 14 September to see if alternative accommodation could be found outside Ballymena.

Michael McIlveen died after being attacked by a gang in the town on 7 May.