Coalisland man awaiting trial for robbery back in custody after breath test

Appearing in the dock at East Tyrone Magistrates Court was twenty-four year old Francis Devine from Coney Park who is accused of robbing an Ulster Bank employee of cash on December 12.

A police officer under oath recapped the circumstances of Devine’s arrest stating after caution he had replied, “It was only a joke”.

Having been refused bail at magistrates court on first appearing, Devine was eventually granted high court bail last month, with a number of conditions including refraining from alcohol.

However when he went to sign with police just after 9pm on March 31, officers noted an odour of alcohol. A breath test was conducted which produced a reading of 42mcg alcohol.

Whilst District Judge John Meehan noted the breach was a matter for high court, a defence solicitor confirmed his client was not seeking bail at this time.

Devine was remanded in custody to appear for committal proceedings on April 15 when his case will be formally transferred to crown court for trial.