Alleged to have threatened to burn man out of home

Appearing at Dungannon Magistrates Court were Gerard McDonagh (35) of Windmill Heights, Enniskillen and James McDonagh (21) of Linen Mews, Lurgan.

The pair are jointly accused of aggravated burglary with intent to cause grievous bodily harm to a male occupant in the Coolcullen Mews area of Enniskillen on 6 October.

They are also accused of handling stolen property including a Volkswagen Passat, beer, wine, clothes, construction equipment, a trolley jack and money while Gerard McDonagh is also charged with driving dangerously at Sligo Road, Enniskillen having no licence or insurance, assaulting two police officers, damaging a PSNI vehicle, failing to provide breath specimen and using disorderly behaviour in South West Acute Hospital.

A detective constable told the court she believed she could connect the pair to their respective charges, adding that police were opposed to bail as the alleged victim had been punched several times and remained in fear.

The detective stated; “Both men made repeated threats to burn the injured party out of his home and claimed other members of their family would come after him.”

The court was told Gerard McDonagh has an outstanding arrest warrant and James McDonagh had repeatedly obstructed police over the 24 hours preceding his court appearance by giving various false names. His true identity was only discovered during the early hours of the morning when he was fingerprinted.

A defence solicitor applied for his clients to be granted bail and gave an assurance they would abide by any terms set.

He said Gerard McDonagh’s wife was in court and “It is his wish to reside with his family.”

Likewise James McDonagh was said to be anxious not to be held in custody.

But District Judge John Meehan ruled the risks were too great and remanded the pair in custody.

They are to appear by video-link at Enniskillen Magistrates Court later this month.