The murder trial of Brandon Rainey, accused of killing 23-year-old Chloe Mitchell in Ballymena, will not kick off on 28 April as planned. Rainey, 29, denies the charges, which include murder and preventing the lawful burial of Chloe’s remains.
Pre-Trial Review at Belfast Crown Court
Rainey appeared via video link from HMP Maghaberry for a pre-trial review on Monday. His legal team revealed significant mental health concerns and have ordered multiple medical assessments. Rainey is scheduled to see a psychologist on 21 April, with defence barristers planning to request further psychiatric reports. 
Experts Yet to Confirm Involvement
The court heard that two psychiatric experts have been approached but have not yet confirmed their availability. Senior defence counsel Des Fahy KC promised an update on the trial timetable during the week beginning 27 April.
Court: Trial Date Unlikely to Hold
Senior prosecution counsel David Russell KC expressed ongoing worries about the trial’s scheduling. Madam Justice McBride ruled that starting the trial on 28 April “would not be viable or tenable.” She balanced the need for a swift process with the defendant’s right to a fair trial: “I’ve always indicated I would keep a tight rein on it.”
Case Prioritised Despite Strike
The judge confirmed the case is exempt from the barristers’ ongoing industrial dispute, with agreement that it must be dealt with urgently. She urged psychiatric experts involved to prioritise this case. The court has set the next review for 28 April.
