A 45-year-old man, who was required to surrender the deeds of his farm in order to secure bail, is to stand trial after pleading not guilty to causing his brother’s death by dangerous driving.
Francis McCafferty of Grout Hall, Pettigo in Donegal further denies driving while disqualified and without insurance.
It is alleged all offences occurred on January 5 2014, during a road traffic collision at Tullychurry Road, Kesh in which Patrick John McCafferty died.
He sustained severe brain injuries and fractured ribs.
A Ford Focus suspected of being involved in the crash was located by Garda close to McCaffrey’s home.
He was arrested and interviewed, then released unconditionally.
But within 24 hours he presented himself to Garda and admitted driving the vehicle but stressed the circumstances of the incident were accidental.
He was again released without charge.
It would be April 2018 – over four years since the incident – before McCafferty would be re-arrested in Strabane.
During interview, PSNI officers discussed the driving admissions made by McCafferty who responded, “Donegal Garda are corrupt.”
He would later be charged and whilst bail was originally opposed by police due to a fear of absconding, a judge agreed on condition the title deeds of his farm were surrendered.
There was also a ban on applying for a passport.
McCafferty appeared today (Monday) for arraignment at Dungannon Crown Court where he pleaded not guilty to all charges.
Judge Stephen Fowler QC ordered a release on continuing bail terms, a trial scheduled to commence on September 28.
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