Dungannon court house
A TEENAGER accused of breaking into the home of an elderly man who was forced to flee upstairs while the house was ransacked has been remanded in custody.
Nathan Phair (18) of Castlebalfour Park, Lisnaskea was one of three males who are alleged to have terrorised the victim, throwing ignited firelighters and coal at him whilst they destroyed the lower floor of his home.
A detective constable told Dungannon Magistrates Court he believed he could connect Phair to charges of aggravated robbery, arson and possessing a hurley stick an offensive weapon.
The detective said the elderly man, who was described in court as “frail and vulnerable” was watching television in his Lisnaskea home around midnight on 4 January 2013 when he heard a loud bang. Fearing for his safety, he made his way upstairs and in the meantime a number of males – one of whom is alleged to be Phair – ransacked the house.
One of the males shouted to the victim, “Give us your money and we’ll leave you alone. If you don’t come down we’ll burn you out.”
They proceeded to lift coal which was thrown at the victim, followed by ignited firelighters. One of these struck the victim in the face.
He remained upstairs, but the males proceeded to smash all the windows and totally destroy the lower floor. It was later discovered cigars, a brooch and pocket watches had been stolen.
The detective told the court the victim has since passed away.
Despite this the investigatiion continued, and significant forensic analysis was carried on glass found on Phair’s shoes. It has been found to be similar to that used in the windows at the crime scene. Paraffin used in firelighters was also discovered on his clothing.
Objecting to bail the detective said Phair is suspected of being involved in another burglary of an elderly man, also in Lisnaskea on 12 December 13.
In this matter, a statement has been made by a witness who claims to have seen Phair enter the house.
Keys were taken in this incident and an attempt was made to take the occupant’s car but this was unsuccessful.
The court was also informed there have been breaches of bail and other offences whilst the case was pending.
The detective said, “This is a complex and protracted case. It is my opinion the defendant’s behaviour is getting progressively worse. If bailed, police believe he will continue to commit further offences.”
Phair was arrested on the evening of 1 May after he failed to attend a scheduled appointment with police earlier in the day.
A defence solicitor contended his client, who denies the allegations, could be released on bail to reside with either his mother or grandmother and an electronic tag could allay police fears of reoffending and curfew breaches.
But Deputy District Judge Austin Kennedy rejected this stating, “It is my view the defendant is simply out of control, He’s given the police the run-around by not attending when he should and by breaching bail. I’ve no doubt if released he will continue to commit offences. It has to stop as and from today.”
Phair will appear again by video link at Enniskillen Magistrates Court on 19 May.
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