Derry man with 176 convictions remanded over domestic assault charges
John Paul Harkin (46) of Faustina Terrace in Derry appeared charged with assaulting a police officer, assaulting a female, disorderly behaviour and threatening to damage property on May 5
A man has been remanded in custody at Derry Magistrate's Court today charged with domestic offences.
John Paul Harkin (46) of Faustina Terrace in Derry appeared charged with assaulting a police officer, assaulting a female, disorderly behaviour and threatening to damage property on May 5.
A police officer connected the accused to the charges and opposed bail.
The court heard that police were called to a report of a disturbance at a property and the defendant walked out followed by a female.
The woman told police Harkin had wrecked her home and when police approached him he was said to have punched an officer and CS spray was used.
Harkin allegedly said he would 'burn you to the ground' and called police 'black b------s'.
The woman told police Harkin had caused damage to her property and was pushing her around.
The court was told the woman then stopped co-operating with police.
Bail was opposed due to the risk of reoffending as Harkin has 176 previous convictions.
Defence solicitor Seamus Quigley said that the defendant had 'a substantial record' .
He said the case arose when his partner rang the police but she was now not co-operating.
District Judge Oonagh Mullan said that the defendant had 'an atrocious record' and refused him bail.
Harkin will appear again on May 28.