A man who caused his son to make sure doors are locked through “appalling behaviour” has been refused bail.
Remanding the 25-year-old in custody, the district judge commented: “I do not know his six-year-old son….for him to not only be in fear but then proceed to assume responsibility for the safety of his mother by making sure doors are locked is of big concern.”
Ruari Gawley, of Cloughmore Park in Rostrevor, appeared for the purposes of a bail application at Armagh Magistrates’ Court, sitting at Newry.
The defendant is charged with breaching a restraining order, harassment, common assault and criminal damage.
Defence barrister Patrick Taggart indicated to the court that his client wished to plead to all charges, bar the common assault.
Objecting to bail, a constable stated that the defendant was seen as a “significant risk” to the alleged injured party and police considered him “dangerous”.
She also commented that it was felt Gawley would be likely to breach any conditions placed on him, either by the court or police.
The constable added that the couple’s six-year-old had begun making sure doors were locked at night so that “daddy does not come back and hurt them again”.
Mr Taggart said that the incident had been “alcohol fuelled” and his client “acknowledged his behaviour was appalling”.
He informed the court that Gawley was applying to reside with his mother, who was prepared to put up a cash surety of £3,000.
District Judge Bernie Kelly stated: “I do have huge issues, given that he breached a restraining order a matter of days after it was imposed on him by the court.
“I do not know his six-year-old son….for him to not only be in fear but then proceed to assume responsibility for the safety of his mother by making sure doors are locked is of big concern.”
Bail was refused on risk of further offences and the case was adjourned until November 2 for an update.
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