Man remanded in custody following Creggan disorder

A man with 75 previous convictions has been remanded in custody after appearing in court in connection to disturbances in the Creggan area of Londonderry.

David Montieth, 36, from St Columb’s Wells, Derry, appeared at the city’s magistrates' court on Thursday charged with riot and disorderly behaviour.

He is also charged with causing criminal damage to a police Land Rover.

The charges relate to disorder in Creggan on Tuesday.

Opposing bail, a police officer told the court he could connect the accused to the charges.

Police had been in the Southway area of Creggan on Tuesday dealing with a security alert, the court was told.

The police officer said that during the disturbances, officers identified Mr Monteith and observed him throwing masonry at police.

At one stage, the court was told, the accused allegedly stood in front of a police Land Rover and damaged it.

He was chased by officers, caught and arrested.

The witness said Mr Monteith made “some admissions” during police interview.

He added that the accused had 75 previous convictions and is on bail at present facing other charges.

Police opposed bail, due to the risk of reoffending.

A defence solicitor said it was “unusual” for the accused to be involved in public disorder and most of his convictions were for drug and theft offences.

“There is nothing to suggest he would commit public order offences,” the solicitor told the court.

'No regard for bail'

Refusing bail, deputy District Judge John Rea said the accused “clearly had no regard for bail conditions” and he was not satisfied that he would not commit further offences.

He will appear in court again on 8 August.