Police chase, arrest and charge

The man appeared at Ballymena Magistrates Court on Thursday, April 18, and was remanded in custody.

As is normal procedure the charges will be reviewed by the PPS.

A police spokesperson said in a statement on Friday that the arrest and charges came as a member of the public reported suspicious activity in a house in the Balmoral Avenue area of Ballymena. Police responded and arrested the man on the Galgorm Road with the assistance of the police helicopter after attempts to evade police.

The man was subsequently charged with burglary in relation to the Balmoral Avenue incident. The further robbery charge followed police investigations into an offence on Sunday, April 14, when a Larne Road shop worker was confronted by a knife wielding man demanding money.

Ballymena Inspector Paul Woods said he was pleased with the arrest and charges: “Police are committed to making Ballymena a safer place for everyone. Robbery and burglary have a lingering impact on victims and police are working hard to tackle these crimes through protective operations and policing with the community. This arrest and charges show the benefits of policing with the community and the results it brings.

“The arrest came after a member of the public reported suspicious activity to us. This shows the positive work between police and the local public and I would like to thank that person for their vigilance and quick thinking.

“The suspect tried all he could to evade police. However, he came up against determined officers working in a coordinated way with the police helicopter and further help from the public. The man has been charged in connection with two separate serious offences and so it was important that this arrest was made and charges brought.

“It’s also important to ask that people continue to report all suspicious activity to us on 0845 600 8000. Information can also be given anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. And if it’s an emergency dial 999”.