Attack accused is refused bail

Kieran Lavery, Meadowbrook, Craigavon, appeared in court by way of videolink from Maghaberry prison.

He is accused of threatening violence towards a female on March 28 this year, possession of an offensive weapon, a stone, and assaulting a female causing her actual bodily harm.

An application was made to last Friday’s court for compassionate bail for Lavery to attend the first communion of his girlfriend’s son the following day (Saturday).

Bail was opposed by police and an officer outlined the circumstances surrounding the alleged offences against Lavery.

He said that on Easter Monday there was serious public disorder in the Kilwilkie estate and police had CCTV and helicam recordings.

These, it is alleged, show Lavery throwing a stone at a land rover and getting involved in the kicking and punching of a female police officer who suffered cracked ribs and bruising to her hips and knees.

The officer added that if the defendant was released it was feared he would breach his bail.

He said that the Lavery had only been with his partner for some months and he was not the biological father of the child.

The defendant’s partner, in the witness box, said that her son got on well with the defendant and was very upset that he would not be attending. She added there would be no alcohol afterwards.

Lavery’s solicitor said his mother would be willing to act as a surety and chaperon him to and from Maghaberry prison.

Deputy District Judge Gerry Trainor said it was a ‘hopeless application’ with the defendant having 30 previous convictions and the likelihood of further offending.

He refused the application and adjourned the case until June 17 for Lavery to appear by way of videolink.