A CHARGE against Vincent McAnespie from Aughnacloy of attempting to murder a part-time UDR man in Ballygawley in 1981 has been withdrawn. At Laganside Crown Court yesterday (Wednesday) Mr Justice Hart agreed with a defence submission that there was not enough evidence to proceed with the charge.
McAnespie (46) of Aghabo had been jointly accused of shooting Sammy Brush who was a ranking member of the Ulster Defence Regiment at the time of the attack. Mr Brush is now a councillor for the Democratic Unionist Party in Dungannon District area. McAnespie will go on trial for the illegal possession of two revolvers. He is strenuously denying that charge.
Co-defendant Gerry McGeogh (50) from the Brantry, Dungannon, who unsuccessfully ran as an independent candidate in the Assembly election in 2007, still faces the attempted murder charge. When arraigned and formally charged with the attempted murder, he responded, "Not guilty." He was also charged with possession of firearms with intent to endanger life and membership of the IRA.
Both men were released on continuing bail to appear in front of the court for a progress review of the case on December 19.
Vincent McAnespie was represented by Des Fahy BL and Adrian O'Kane of Patrick Fahy solicitors Omagh. Gerry McGeough was represented by Kevin Winters solicitors Belfast.
