Man is charged with endangering lives of seven people during alleged arson attack on dwelling during Ballymena riots
A man is charged with endangering the lives of seven people in an alleged arson attack on a dwelling during riots in the Clonavon area of Ballymena.
Kelvin James Kane (30), of Dunclug Gardens in the town, is charged with arson endangering life at Clonavon Terrace on June 9 this year.
He is also charged with being a trespasser at the Clonavon Terrace property with intent to do damage; and faces a similar trespasser charge regarding a dwelling at Clonavon Road on June 9.
He is also charged with causing criminal damage to a boat during rioting. It is understood the charge relates to a speedboat which was seen, in social media images, lying in the middle of the road at Clonavon Terrace during serious disorder.
He faces other charges - riotous assembly; entering two properties at Clonavon Terrace with intent to do damage; and causing criminal damage to doors and windows at properties on that street. He is also alleged to have been in possession of pregabalin without a prescription.
At an earlier court a police officer said Kane was seen throwing items at houses, kicking in doors; entering properties and "at one stage he directs a group of around six males to a property".
He appeared at Ballymena Magistrates Court on Thursday (August 14) via video link from prison where he has been on remand. He was further remanded in custody and the case was adjourned to September 11.
District Judge Nigel Broderick noted the defendant denies the charges.