Derry man charged over dogs' deaths refused bail

The house in the Rosemount area of Londonderry was badly damaged in the fire

A 36-year-old man charged over an alleged arson attack on a house in Londonderry in which three dogs were found dead has been refused bail.

Conor Lishman, of Eastway Gardens in Derry, is accused of arson, three counts of criminal damage, trespassing and assault on police on 16 June.

The charges relate to a house fire in the Meadowview Crescent area of Rosemount.

On Monday a police officer told Londonderry Magistrates’ Court bail was being opposed due to a risk of re-offending.

The police officer also said that despite an approved address there were concerns about interference with witnesses.

He told the court the defendant had 108 previous convictions, including three for escaping from lawful custody, so there was a chance he would not turn up for trial.

The officer also said the accused was "fully aware" of who the witnesses in the case were and could interfere with them.

A defence barrister said he accepted the concerns of the police but believed with the new address Mr Lishman was a suitable candidate for bail.

Refusing bail, a district judge remanded the accused into custody to appear again on 12 September.