A man who allegedly covered police uniform in excrement and assaulted a nurse has been granted bail subject to an address being found.
The 55-year-old’s barrister claimed that the defendant’s “mental state” would be important to the case and he could not be “properly psychologically assessed” whilst in prison.
Jose Peneda, of Garvaghy Road, Portadown appeared charged with three counts of criminal damage and common assault at Craigavon Magistrates’ Court on Friday.
Defence barrister Peter Coiley stated that when apprehended by the police the defendant had been naked, he was taken to hospital due to concerns for his health and it is whilst there that he allegedly assaulted a nurse.
He also informed court that Peneda is alleged to have damaged police uniform by covering it in excrement.
Mr Coiley said: “One of the main reasons that he was not previously granted bail was that there was no suitable address and there was also a fear he would return to Portugal.
“At the time he had been living in outhouses and he cannot return to that address as it was the scene of the offence, but I have provided police with contacts of several Portuguese nationals living in Craigavon who could offer temporary accommodation”.
He added: “Mr Peneda’s mental state is going to be a major part of this case and he will not be able to be properly psychologically assessed whilst he is in prison.
“As that is the case I would ask that bail is granted subject to an address being approved by police”.
Deputy District Judge John Rea granted the defendant his own bail of £300.
Conditions of this included that he reside at an address to be approved by police, to surrender any passport held and to report twice a week to police.
The case was adjourned until November 8 for an update on the file.
