Man with 71 previous convictions refused bail at Derry Court

A man has had his bail revoked following an appearance at Derry Magistrates Court on a number of drug charges.

Adam Toner (37) of Great James Street in Derry was charged with, between July 26 and 27, being in possession of a number of drugs, including cocaine and diazipam.

He was also charged with assaulting a police officer and damaging a police van.

The court heard that police were initially alerted when the manager of a sunbed salon reported finding a bag of white pills following a session by Toner.

Toner was said to have returned and demanded that she return the pills but she refused, instead informing the police.

Police later searched Toner's flat and discovered more drugs while Toner had to be restrained, twisting the wrist of one of the officers.

Police were unable to interview Toner due to his behaviour while in custody.

Police objected to bail as Toner was already on bail for seven other drug offences, having been granted on June 19.

They said that he has a 'horrendous record' with 71 previous convictions, including 22 for drug offences and said there was an 'extremely high risk' of reoffending.

Defence solicitor Chris Logue said that Toner had recently got himself back into Woodleigh House to help with his drug issues.

District Judge Barney McElhom said that Toner had been given opportunities but refused to take them, refusing bail while Toner gave the court two middle fingers.

He will appear again on August 22.