Still in jail despite being given bail

Sean Paul O’Callaghan, Erindale Terrace, Banbridge, appeared by way of videolink from Maghaberry prison last Thursday at the local magistrates’ court.

His solicitor said it was frustrating for the defendant that he had been unable to find an address although there was one available in Richhill.

A public prosecutor said that the lady living at that address was well known to police.

District Judge, Mr Paul Copeland, said the court could not have the defendant mingling with the criminal fraternity but there may be other agencies which could help.

He remanded the case for another week, to September 24, to see if O’Callaghan could find accommodation.

Via the videolink the defendant told the judge that he had given three addresses.

“The police don’t want me out,” he said.

“I came in here to get off drugs and I have passed all by drugs tests.”

He is charged with entering as a trespasser Dynamic Design Consultants in Banbridge on February 20 this year with intent to steal.

On the same date he is accused of entering commercial premises at 20A Newry Street, Banbridge, and stealing a cash box containing £280 and 180 Euros, entering Todds Furniture Place on Newry Street with intent to steal and attempting to enter Supervalu.

O’Callaghan is charged with attempting to rob an employee of Boyle’s Bingo, Newry, of cash on December 22 last year and that he had a knife with him.

It is also alleged that he stole £100 in cash belonging to Quinn’s Gaming Machines, Banbridge, on February 12 this year.

He is further charged that on January 7 he attempted to enter CJs Snooker Club, Banbridge, with intent to steal.

The previous week’s court heard he walked into Banbridge police station and voluntarily admitted a number of offences.

He told the court he ‘didn’t intend to be a criminal any more’ during the bail application.

O’Callaghan was remanded on his own bail of £750 and is to reside at an address agreed by the police.

A curfew was also put in place and the defendant is to be electronically monitored and banned from taking alcohol and non prescription drugs.

He is also banned from entering Newry or Banbridge except for court appearances.