The High Court has heard that a high-profile loyalist accused of raping a 13-year-old girl is being investigated for further alleged offences.
Mark Harbinson, a prominent Orangeman during the Drumcree marching standoff, faces a number of child sex charges following the seizure of five mobile phones and a computer.
The High Court heard that Harbinson is being investigated for further alleged offences against two other potential victims - one of them a boy aged 12.
Prosecutors disclosed the 13-year-old girl at the centre of the inquiry claimed to have been in a relationship with the 42-year-old since March, with sexual encounters allegedly taking place in a car and, on one occasion, in an Orange Hall.
Crown counsel Conor Maguire said an examination of the 13-year-old's phone revealed 1,060 communications between her and Harbinson, mostly text messages, and more than 100 contacts going the other way.
Harbinson, of Sheepwalk Road in Stoneyford, Co Antrim denies charges of rape, two counts of possessing photos of a child, and two further charges involving sexual activity between an adult and a child.
He was refused bail due to the risk of any interference with witnesses in the case.
Mr Justice Hart also pointed out that Harbinson has still to be interviewed in relation to the latest allegations.
The judge said: "Given the nature of his contact with the first girl after police searched his house I'm satisfied that's a further reason for concern there may be interference with witnesses."
© UTV News