Man (30) with 'atrocious record' refused bail for Derry aggravated burglaries

A judge at Derry Magistrate's Court today said he had 'no hesitation' in refusing bail to a man with an 'atrocious record' charged with a series of aggravated burglaries at various addresses in the city.

Josh Parker (30) with an address in the Antrim Road in Belfast appeared charged with a series of offences.

He was charged with wounding with intent and possessing a knife on December 27 2022.

He was further charged with aggravated burglary with the theft of cash, criminal damage and assault on March 21.

Parker also faced another series of charges including threats to kill, possessing an offensive weapon, criminal damage and two assaults that were said to have occurred on May 6.

Finally Parker was charged with another aggravated burglary in Derry, possessing an offensive weapon, making a threat to kill and possessing Diazepam on May 7.

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

Deputy District Judge Alan White asked 'in what circumstances would I grant bail?'

Defence solicitor Seamus Quigley said that the defendant had an address in Belfast while the offences were said to have occurred in Derry.

He said that in relation to one of the charges the defendant would claim he had been attacked and suffered injuries.

Judge White refused bail due to the defendant's record and the seriousness of the offences.

Parker will appear again on June 6.