Northern Ireland

13-year-old alleged burglar ordered to wear electronic tag

A 13-year-old boy accused of burglary has been released on bail on condition he wears an electronic tag
A 13-year-old boy accused of burglary has been released on bail on condition he wears an electronic tag A 13-year-old boy accused of burglary has been released on bail on condition he wears an electronic tag

A 13-year-old alleged burglar must wear an electronic tag as part of bail terms, a High Court judge has ordered.

Mr Justice Deeney imposed the monitoring conditions after prosecutors claimed the boy carried out a crime spree in Newry.

The teenager, who cannot be identified, is accused of breaking into one home last week and stealing cash, bank cards and a tablet device.

He also allegedly tried to raid a neighbour's house as well as stealing a dog box and child's BMX bike in separate incidents.

Crown lawyer Conor Maguire also detailed an earlier attack on a man by assailants demanding money.

It was claimed that an older co-accused knocked the victim to the ground before the boy encouraged him by shouting "Punch him harder".

The youth faces charges of burglary, attempted burglary, two counts of theft, an attempted robbery and common assault.

The alleged offences were committed on dates between October 7 last year and January 18.

CCTV footage of a £50 withdrawal from a cash machine near his home links the accused to the break-in, it was claimed.

During a bail application Mr Maguire also set out a series of dates where he has failed to attend school.

Despite the boy's age, the prosecutor opposed his release to protect the public.

But Mr Justice Deeny granted bail on the basis that an electronic tag is worn.

Directing that the accused must attend school every day and be accompanied by a relative in town, the judge received assurances of full compliance.

The boy, who appeared by video-link from a youth detention centre, replied: "I promise."