Man accused of murdering Dungannon toddler returned for trial

A 33-YEAR-OLD man accused of murdering toddler Ali-Jayden Doyle in Dungannon almost two years ago has been returned for trial.

The two-year-old died on August 6, 2021, having sustained what was described as “catastrophic head injuries” allegedly caused by her stepfather Darren John Armstrong, of Park Avenue, Dungannon, but remanded in custody since his arrest.

He and the child’s mother Jade Dempsey (26), of Sycamore Drive, Dungannon, but since bailed to an unspecified address, appeared today (Friday) for a committal hearing, although their cases were dealt with separately.

Armstrong is charged with murdering Ali-Jayden on August 6, 2021, while Dempsey is charged with causing the death of the child by knowing there was significant risk of serious harm and failing to take steps to protect her.

She is further accused of child cruelty by wilfully neglecting and exposing Ali-Jayden to unnecessary suffering or injury.

A prosecuting lawyer told Dungannon Magistrates Court there was a case to answer which was agreed by district judge, Michael Ranaghan.

Armstrong and Dempsey did not object to the proceedings and declined to call witnesses or give evidence on their own behalf at this stage.

The judge ordered them to appear for arraignment at Dungannon Crown Court on June 1, with Armstrong remanded in custody and Dempsey on continuing bail.