An 18-year-old man charged with raping a teenage girl in Belfast in September has been refused bail.
Marcus McMullan, of Wynchurch Park, Belfast, is also accused of sexually assaulting the 15-year-old alleged victim.
Belfast Magistrates' Court heard that the accused's mother was prepared to put up thousands of pounds as a cash surety to secure his release, but bail was refused due to concerns about a perceived risk of re-offending.
The detective constable opposing bail told the court consideration had to be given to the "protection of children and vulnerable people".
She added: "We also have to consider the defendant's own safety. Public feelings can be quite strong in these cases."
A defence barrister for McMullan argued there were issues around text messages allegedly sent to him by the girl accusing him of rape.
"The phone has now been seized and this is due to be checked," he said.
"There are big issues about whether it was consensual, and whether he knew the age of the injured party."
District judge Fiona Bagnall said she was taking a cautious view due to the nature of the allegation and the age of the girl.
McMullan was remanded in custody to appear again next month.
© UTV News