Derry Court: Man (41) bailed for alleged assault on pregnant partner

District Judge Barney McElholm has said that a man who appeared before him charged with breaching a non molestation order was 'aiding and abetting' his pregnant partner to consume alcohol.

Keith Powell (41) of Galliagh Park in Derry appeared charged with breaching a non molestation order on July 24.

He was also charged with assault and engaging in a course of action that could be deemed abusive on July 5.

A police officer connected the accused to the charges and opposed bail. 

The court heard that police were called to an address on July 5 and found the defendant and a female who had been drinking together. 

The woman said that she had been assaulted by the defendant and said he had bit her on her arms.

It was said the woman had swelling on her eye and bruises on her arm. 

On July 24 the woman reported multiple calls from the defendant encouraging her to drop the charges against him. 

The woman said that the calls had put her in fear. 

When interviewed the defendant made allegations against the woman and said he did not believe she would be intimidated. 

The police officer said they had concerns about bail due to the risk of re-offending and interference with witnesses. 

She said Powell had 'put pressure' on the woman to resolve the case.

Judge McElholm said he was concerned that this man 'would sit there and watch the mother of his unborn child drink when the damage that could cause was well known'.

He said that there then was 'a blatant and flagrant ' attempt to get her to drop the charges.

Defence solicitor Seamus Quigley said that his client had' spoken freely' to police.

He described the relationship between the two as 'two way traffic' and said his client was also vulnerable.

Powell was released on bail on condition he does not go within 500 metres of Clon Dara and has no contact with the alleged victim. 

He will appear again on August 23.