'˜Do what grandfather tells you or you will go back to jail' warns judge

Adam Potts - who at the age of 19 had an “extensive criminal record” - was released by Mr Justice Horner, who warned him that any breach of bail would result in him going “staight back into custody.”

Potts, from Castleview in Gilford, is facing a number of charges arising from an alleged incident which occurred on April 16 this year.

Outlining the Crown case against Potts, a prosecuting barrister said police responded to a 999 call at an address in Gilford, and when they arrived Potts was standing outside the property. He appeared unsteady on his feet, his speech was slurred, he smelt of drink and he was verbally aggressive to officers.

The prosecutor said that when the officers entered the property they located a male who was covered in blood and appeared to have been assaulted.

Potts was arrested on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm, and during interview he gave a ‘no comment’ reponse.

The prosecutor asked the judge to impose stringent bail conditions on Potts, saying “this young man has a very extensive criminal record” despite only being 19.

These conditions included Potts abstaining from drink and non-prescribed drugs and having no contact with the alleged injured party.

Prior to releasing Potts on bail, Mr Justice Horner told his barrister “this young man should have some structure in his day. The last thing he needs is to be lying about the house.”

Potts’ barrister responded by revealing that should he be released, Potts would be working with his grandfather, who is a landscape gardener.

The barrister said that when Potts worked with his grandfather in the past, he “derived satisfaction and self-worth.”

Mr Justice Horner agreed to the application to release Potts on bail with conditions imposed including electronic tagging.

He was also ordered to work with his grandfather, and was warned by Mr Justice Horner “work for your grandfather and do what he tells you. Otherwise, that is a breach of bail and you will be back in custody.”