Derry man charged with assaulting police officer released on bail
Ryan Johnston (34) from Fern Park in Derry was arrested on Sunday evening when the police were informed that he'd breached court imposed curfew conditions by not being at his address during curfew hours
A man who told the police that he'd consumed a large amount of alcohol and had taken drugs was released on bail when he appeared before the Derry Magistrates' Court charged with assaulting a police officer in Altnagelvin Hospital.
Ryan Johnston (34) from Fern Park in Derry was arrested on Sunday evening when the police were informed that he'd breached court imposed curfew conditions by not being at his address during curfew hours.
The court heard police located him and took him into custody in Waterside police station where he became unconscious and limp.
He told the officers he'd taken a large amount of alcohol as well as some drugs so the decision was taken to bring him to the hospital. In the accident and emergency department be became irate and starting walking along the ward shouting obscenities at the police the court was told.
The officer said Johnston ignored requests to moderate his behaviour and limb restraints had to be applied to him but he continued to verbally abuse the officers.
The defendant had 48 previous convictions.
Applying for bail solicitor Paddy MacDermott said the defendant had been on bail for five months without any re-offending.
Releasing the defendant on bail District Judge Oonagh Mullan told the defendant it was his last opportunity. She said as part of his bail conditions the defendant must live at his current Fern Park address and must observe curfew hours. He'll also be electronically monitored and he's banned from taking illegal drugs and alcohol.
The case was adjourned until May 22.