Derry man granted bail on 2023 burglary charges despite police 'avoidance' claims

A man who police believe was 'actively avoiding' them for the past couple of years has appeared at Derry Magistrate's Court charged with burglaries in the Temple grove/Branch Riad area in 2023.

Michael Stokes (49) of Drumard Park in Derry was charged with two burglaries on July 29 2023 and a charge of possessing an offensive weapon. 

The court heard that the defendant had 'a substantial record'.

A police officer said that on that date a report was received of a man trying to enter properties in the Branch and Templegrove area of the city.

After entering one property the man was challenged by the householders.

On entering another property the man was captured by  CCTV and was identified by an officer. 

Police attended an address but could not locate the defendant but the officer was able to identify Stokes from CCTV. 

The officer said that Stokes would have been aware police were looking for him.

Defence solicitor Seamus Quigley said that the alleged offences were said to have occurred more than two years ago so there was little risk of reoffending. 

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He said this case would probably go to the Crown Court which could take some time.

He was granted bail on condition he wears a tag, observes a curfew and doesn't enter the Branch/Templegrove area.

He will appear again on December 22.