Derry man falls from second floor balcony while allegedly under influence of drugs

A man who was described as 'a danger to himself' after he was seen falling from a second floor balcony while allegedly under the influence of drugs has been remanded in custody at Derry Magistrate's Court today.

Luke McCormick (25) of Glenabbey Drive in Derry appeared charged with possessing cannabis and cocaine on December 30.

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

He told the court that police were called by a neighbour who said they had seen McCormick fall from the second floor and then scaled back up the building. 

Police were concerned for McCormick's safety and called to the address where they had to force a door to gain entry.

They found the defendant inside and he had 'minor injuries' to his arms and head and police believed he was under the influence of some substance. 

An ambulance was called but McCormick refused to go to the hospital. 

Police found a quantity of cannabis and there was £500 lying on the bedroom floor. 

The defendant was searched and two deal bags of suspected cocaine were found on him. 

A quantity of white powder was also found as well as scales with white powder on them. 

The white powder has been sent away for testing to see if it is cocaine. 

The defendant admitted he was addicted to drugs and bail was opposed due to the risk of re-offending. 

The officer said police were also concerned that McCormick was a danger to himself after falling from a second floor balcony. 

Defence solicitor Paddy MacDermott said that his client was addicted to drugs but added that he had an appointment coming up where he was seeking help. 

He said he accepts 'he needs to stop this'. 

District Judge Barney McElholm said it was 'very positive' that in the middle of a cost of living crisis the defendant had £500 lying on the bedroom floor. 

He refused bail and remanded McCormick in custody to appear again on January 26.