Judge questions who Coalisland defendant is brought to court

A District Judge has enquired whether a defence solicitor is prepared to pay the costs to bring a prisoner to court when he wasn’t required to be produced in person.
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Connor Patrick Steven Mallon (30) from Ardnaskea Park, Coalisland is currently remanded in custody charged with a litany of violence-related offences including possessing an offensive weapon, and two counts each of assault occasioning actual bodily harm, threats to kill and threats to damage property. The charges relate to two sets of offences allegedly committed on April 24.

Bail was previously refused at magistrates court. The case is still in its early stages but Mallon was produced in court last week. A prosecution lawyer requested an adjournment for a full file which was granted. District Judge John Meehan enquired why it had been necessary to have Mallon appear in person and not simply use the video-link for a review.

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A defence solicitor replied, “It is my understanding my client is to make a statement to another solicitor from the office.” To this Judge Meehan retorted, “Is the solicitor paying the £740 required to bring the prisoner to court in order to consult?” When the defence replied she wasn’t sure,

Judge Meehan advised, “Perhaps you should suggest it as a reminder of social responsibilities.” In the meantime Mallon was remanded in custody for a review on June 2 – by video-link.

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