A 41 year-old man who appeared before Magherafelt Magistrates Court this morning charged with burglary, criminal damage and arson has been remanded in custody.
The court heard that Brendan Lowry, whose address was given on court papers as no fixed abode, allegedly entered W Clark and Sons Mill, Upperlands on June 25 and caused criminal damage.
The court also heard that on the same date, the defendant allegedly entered the Old Mill Coffee Shop, Upperlands and stole £415 before attempting to destroy or damage the premises by fire.
During the short hearing, Lowry spoke only to confirm that he understood the charges.
A defence solicitor told the court that the defendant has problems with his mental health.
He said: “The defendant has spent time in Hollywell Hospital as he has problems with his mental health.
“After speaking with the defendant last night and this morning, he has told me it has been the safest he has felt in a long time being in the police cell.”
The defence solicitor made no application for bail.
District Judge Nigel Broderick remanded Lowry in custody to appear before Magherafelt Magistrates Court via video link on July 23.
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