Derry man charged with non fatal strangulation and assault on sister remanded

A man has been remanded in custody at Derry Magistrate's Court today charged with non fatal strangulation and assault on his sister nine days after being bailed on condition he did not contact her. 

Patrick Weir (25) of Clon Dara in Derry appeared charged with the non fatal strangulation of his sister on June 17 and also a charge of assault on her on the same date.

A police officer connected the accused to the charges and opposed bail. 

He told the court that shortly after 10pm police received a report from the alleged victim that she had been assaulted by her brother.

She said she had been at her own address with a friend who let the defendant into the property without her knowledge. 

The woman was aware that her brother was on police bail on condition not to contact her.

She claimed that initially Weir had shadow boxed with her in a playful way but after a period he punched her twice on the head then kicked her on the leg causing her to fall.

While on the ground she alleged he punched her several times before grabbing her by the throat and squeezing.

Her friend informed Weir the police had been called and he ran off. 

Weir was arrested and denied the offences claiming that he had been assaulted. 

The officer said that the woman had visible injuries. 

Bail was opposed on the grounds of the risk of re-offending and the fact that he had been charged within nine days of being bailed.

Defence solicitor Paddy MacDermott said that his client was denying all the offences. 

He said the defendant's mother was 'anxious' to get her son released that she was prepared to keep the brother and sister apart.

District Judge Barney McElholm said that the defendant had been given a chance by getting police bail. 

He said that the mother was 'well intentioned' but he was sure Weir would do what he wanted.

He refused bail and said he 'didn't believe a word Weir says'.

Weir will appear again on July 11.