Derry man with 128 previous convictions drove into church grounds in an attempt to escape police - court told

Derry Magistrates' Court heard today how a driver being chased by police drove into church grounds in an attempt to escape while a funeral was going on and rammed a vehicle there.

Dean Beatie (31) of Glenvale Road in Derry appeared in court charged with, on January 14, dangerous driving, driving while disqualified, driving with no insurance, driving while unfit due to drink or drugs and possession of Diazepam.

Police told the court that they first observed Beatie while out on routine patrol in the William Street area at 9.20am and spotted a car stopped at a junction.

Officers recognised Beatie as being disqualified from driving and signalled for him to stop. Beatie instead drove into oncoming traffic, causing a number of cars to swerve to avoid him.

He then proceeded to drive into the grounds of St. Eugene's Cathedral, where another car was blocking his attempted escape route.

Beatie rammed into the car before police managed to take the keys out of the ignition and arrested him for a number of driving offences. 

Upon closer inspection, police noticed that Beatie was clearly under the influence and he later tested positive for traces of cocaine and cannabis. Police also found a Diazepam tablet in his possession.

When interviewed, Beatie admitted to driving the car despite knowing he had no license. He also claimed that his driving wasn't dangerous.

The court heard that Beatie has 128 previous convictions, including 29 for driving and 31 for drugs. Police objected to bail as they believe he is at risk of reoffending and is a risk to the public.

Defence Barrister Brendan Kearney said that Beatie had 'made certain admissions' to the charges and 'clearly has a very bad record', but added that he hasn't offended since June last year.

District Judge Barney McElhom described Beatie as a 'clear and present danger' to the public and remanded him in custody.

He will appear again on February 12.