Train driver cleared of assault

A Translink driver has been cleared of sexually assaulting a teenage girl in the cabin of his train.

Peter Barrett, 39, from Hawthorn View, Hannahstown, was accused of molesting the 17-year-old after she boarded a late night service from Carrickfergus.

District judge Desmond Perry dismissed the charge after inspecting the train where the alleged incident took place.

The case was heard at Belfast Magistrates Court.

Mr Perry said it would have been virtually impossible for the girl not to have banged her knee - as she claimed - when jumping from the driver's seat after the alleged attack.

Mr Perry also pointed out a conductor was sitting no more than 15ft away from the open cab door at the time, and questioned how Mr Barrett could have dragged a complete stranger onto his lap without any protest.

He said: "It's a matter of note that throughout this whole incident, when she's (allegedly) pulled onto his knee... there's no mention of her shouting or screaming for help. I fail to understand that."

"I take the view that a jury, properly directed, could not convict having heard her evidence and having seen the particular place where the assault is alleged to have occurred. The charge will be dismissed."