Crime gang given conditional bail

The three men, all of whom are from Londonderry, were described by the police as being part of a “notorious and organised shop lifting team” who were responsible for the theft of thousands of pounds worth of goods from retail premises on both sides of the border. Bail was granted to Richard Green (38), with an address at 32a, Lower Nassau Street, who is charged with a total of 23 offences, which include handling goods stolen in the Republic of Ireland as well as stealing from shops across the city centre in Londonderry.

Also granted bail was Michael Brown (26), also with an address at Lower Nassau Street in the Cityside. The District Judge was told he faces a total of 22 charges involving a range of retail outlets, while Liam Graham Harvey (28), of 33 Abercorn Road faces a total of 34 charges, including handling goods stolen in the Republic and the theft of goods from a variety of outlets in Londonderry and Co Londonderry.

At the hearing police objected to bail claiming that the men were part of a gang and police feared they would re-offend.

A defence solicitor said that any risk of re-offending could be dealt with by imposing exclusion orders on the three and prohibiting them from contacting each other.

District Judge McElholm granted the three accused bail on condition that suitable accommodation became available.

The three will appear again on April 30.