Derry man remanded in custody over 24 serious driving and assault offences

A man has appeared at Derry Magistrate's Court facing twenty-four charges including ramming another vehicle on three separate occasions. 

Odhran McCallion (20) of Rossnagalliagh in Derry was charged with, on January 23, criminal damage of a front door, window, house and car as well as driving with no insurance and no licence.

He was also charged with similar charges on January 26 and February 6, as well as being charged with harassment, assault and dangerous driving and, on January 23 and February 6, offences related to falsifying a vehicle registration.

Police were initially called on January 23 to a report by a couple that the glass panel in their front door had been smashed and that McCallion was in a car in front of their house, ramming their vehicle before driving away.

On January 26, police were called after McCallion was said to be doing the same thing again, leaving the injured party in fear he would be assaulted.

On February 2, police were once again called after the injured parties saw McCallion driving in the same car but with a different registration.

When he saw them, McCallion was said to have done a U-turn and rammed them into oncoming traffic, shouting 'I'm watching you!'.

Police traced the new registration to a different vehicle that was sold to McCallion recently.

When police tracked him to Cornshell Fields, he was seen in a different car, driving away at speed from police and heading for the border.

He later attended the police station for interview voluntarily, offering no comment answers to every question.

Police objected to bail as they say McCallion is a clear risk to the public.

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They added that he has nine previous convictions, all traffic related and is a danger and potential flight risk.

Defence barrister Grainne McAnaney pointed out that McCallion had gone to the police station of his own accord after being advised to do so by his solicitor.

She added that he is willing to engage with the full process relating to the 'obviously serious' allegations.

Bail was refused and he will appear again on March 5.