A man accused of handling a car stolen in the Republic of Ireland and assault on police will face Crown Court proceedings next month.
The 39-year-old appeared before Newry Magistrates’ on Wednesday for the purposes of a preliminary enquiry (PE), the legal process during which a case is referred to the higher court.
Martin McDonagh, of Etna Drive in Belfast, is charged with handling property stolen in the Republic of Ireland, dangerous driving, going equipped for theft, driving whilst disqualified, assault on police and resisting police.
As these charges were read, it was heard that all of the offences are alleged to have occurred on July 26, of last year.
The property which was alleged to have been stolen in the Republic of Ireland was identified as an Opal Insignia.
The defendant is accused of driving dangerously and whilst disqualified in the vicinity of Church Hill, Jonesborough.
McDonagh is also accused of not being at his place of abode and had with him an article, namely a vehicle registration plate, in course or connection with theft.
Appearing via videolink from his solicitor’s office, the defendant made no objection to the holding of a preliminary enquiry.
Prosecution submitted that based on the papers before the court there was a prima facie case to answer.
Defence solicitor John Rocks made no contrary submissions.
Deputy District Judge Anne Marshall was satisfied there was a prima facie case to answer and the defendant was released on his own bail of £500 to appear before Newry Crown Court on April 22 for arraignment.
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