A MAN has appeared in court in relation to an alleged home invasion during which the occupant was attacked with a golf club.
Joseph Michael Kelly (30) from Knockena, Derry is charged with entering the house as a trespasser while armed with a golf club, with intent to inflict grievous bodily harm.
The incident is alleged to have occurred on July 6 in the Primrose Park area of Sion Mills.
A detective constable told Dungannon Magistrates Court that at around 9pm on the night in question, the victim heard his front door opening, and observed two males, one holding a golf club.
They shouted out his name followed by "we're here to do your legs in. You've got 24 hours to pay".
The victim barricaded himself in a bedroom, but the two men beat through the middle of the door with the golf club. One of the men struck the victim to his head, but he managed to wrench the golf club from the attacker.
The victim realised he recognised the defendant. A third male then shouted that a neighbour was ringing police. Kelly tried to grab the victim through the door and yelled at him "don't mention my name to police". He punched the victim to his eye. The attackers then fled the scene.
When talking to police, the victim pointed out he has previous issues with Kelly over a drug debt. The detective advised Kelly was arrested and during interview gave no comment replies, except to confirm his address and that he lived with his father. He declined to answer questions about his knowledge of the victim, the area of the incident or a silver Mercedes found burnt out by An Garda Siochana in Donegal, which is believed to be connected to the incident.
Objecting to bail the detective said enquiries are ongoing.
A defence solicitor urged bail to be granted, pointing out Kelly, "is due to start a 10 week course to allow him to seek employment as a health and safety inspector".
Deputy District Judge Sean O'Hare agreed to grant bail in the sum of £500 with a similar surety to be provided by Kelly's father. There is to be no contact with the victim or any witnesses and a ban on entering Sion Mills. Kelly must also sign twice weekly with police. The case is listed for mention at Strabane Magistrates Court on July 21.