John Caldwell attempted murder accused granted bail to see newborn
- Published
John Caldwell was seriously injured in the attack in February
One of the seven men accused of attempting to murder Det Ch Insp John Caldwell has been granted compassionate bail to see his newborn baby.
Det Ch Insp Caldwell was shot after coaching a youth football team in Omagh, County Tyrone, on 22 February.
Dissident republican group the New IRA said it carried out the attack.
Robert McLean, 29, of Deverney Park, Omagh, is currently remanded in custody over the shooting, along with his father and brother.
James Ivor McLean, 72, of the same address and 33-year-old Matthew McLean, of Glenpark Road in Omagh, have also been charged with attempted murder.
The shooting, which happened in February, happened at a sports complex in Omagh
Opposing compassionate bail at Dungannon Magistrates' Court, the prosecution said evidence linking Robert McLean to the shooting included cartridge discharge residue (CDR) found on the passenger seat of a van, which matched particles recovered from Det Ch Insp Caldwell.
Concerns were also raised there was a risk of potential witness interference and reoffending, even if he was released for a short time.
A defence barrister for Robert McLean argued for a short compassionate release due to the birth of his child.
However, this was ruled out as the court heard Mr McLean would have to travel to Omagh where witnesses, as well as the victim's family, live.
Deputy District Judge Sean O'Hare acknowledged the significance of the birth of a child in anyone's life and suggested the mother and child go to a more favourable location, stressing that no visits could take place in Omagh.
Stringent conditions
Judge O'Hare ruled that Mr McLean could be released for a short time on Friday 13 October with stringent conditions.
These include a £1,000 cash surety, presenting himself to police at the door of the property and agreeing to allow an inspection at any time during release.
Mr McLean must also return to Maghaberry Prison by 18:00 BST on the same day.