A Belfast man whose rape conviction was overturned is to face a retrial, despite claims from his lawyers that adverse media reports could prejudice the case.
Anthony West, 22 and formerly of Knockwood Crescent, was originally jailed for 11 years after being found guilty of raping a woman at her home in Belfast in November 2007.
He denied the offence and his lawyers successfully appealed the conviction on the basis that closing submissions by a junior Crown counsel at the trial undermined the safety of the conviction.
The Court of Appeal identified flaws in that prosecution speech, along with failures to properly direct the jury and to forensically examine back door keys to the house in Belfast where the alleged rape was carried out.
After the verdict was quashed West was granted bail while a decision was taken on whether to order a retrial.
His barrister urged the court on Friday to resist such a move due to publicity which "vilified" him following the original conviction.
But judges ruled that a properly directed jury could still ensure he receives a fair trial.
Lord Justice Girvan said: "Clearly there are issues that have to be addressed in balancing the right of freedom of expression and the interests of the defendant appellant in the event of a retrial."
He urged the media to "exercise great care" in ensuring nothing is done to undermine future proceedings.
Lord Justice Girvan warned that any such prejudicial reporting may result in being held in contempt of court.
© UTV News