Derry Court: Remand for man accused of stabbing woman and banging her head off a radiator

A man who was accused of assaulting a woman by stabbing her in the leg with scissors and banging her head off a radiator has been remanded in custody at Derry Magistrate's Court today.

Christopher McCloskey (32) of Springhill House in Limavady appeared charged with attempted grievous bodily harm with intent on a woman, attempted criminal damage, threatening to damage property and two counts of possessing drugs.

His case was dealt with in his absence as the court was told he had defacated in his cell. 

All of the offences were said to have occurred on June 3.

The court heard that police were called to a report of a woman being stabbed in Eglinton at 5.40am and were given a description of the alleged perpetrator.

When police arrived McCloskey was seen to match that description. 

He was detained by police and despite being warned about his behaviour refused to moderate it and a CS spray had to be used. 

The alleged victim told police McCloskey had come to her door claiming he was suicidal and she took him in. 

He then tried to take her cigarettes and medication and an argument ensued and she claimed McCloskey stabbed her in the leg.  

She said he then banged her head off a radiator causing 'blood loss' and committed other injuries upon her.

When arrested the defendant claimed he had been assaulted. 

The defendant was taken to Altnagelvin Hospital and while there asked to use the toilet and then Class C drugs were found on him and more found in his shoes.

At interview the defendant claimed the woman had 'spiked' his drink but couldn't account for the injuries on the woman.

A police officer said that there was a witness who heard 'screaming and shouting' and had seen the injuries on the woman.

Bail was opposed due to the risk of re-offending and the court heard he had 47 previous convictions 9 of them for violence. 

The officer said that McCloskey appeared to be self medicating in relation to drugs and would re-offend.

Defence solicitor Paddy MacDermott said that the facts in the case were disputed. 

He asked for bail and said the defendant had an address in Limavady and could be ordered to stay out of Eglinton. 

District Judge Oonagh Mullen said that it was a 'serious' incident and 'excessive force' seemed to have been used.

She refused bail and McCloskey was remanded in custody to appear again on June 29.