A third application for bail in relation to a domestic violence case has heard graphic details of the alleged assault carried out a woman by her partner.
The accused, Mark Terence Convey (36) of Main Street, Fivemiletown has already been refused bail at both magistrates and high courts, but a fresh application was brought due to what the defence stated was a change of his client’s circumstances.
The investigating officer told Dungannon Magistrates Court police received an emergency call on 30 May in which it was reported a woman was being assaulted at Convey’s home.
On arrival officers noted blood splattered over walls and on locating Convey found he was intoxicated and had bite marks on his skin.
Clumps of hair were also observed, but on speaking to the female victim she initially denied any assault had occurred. Officers saw bruising to her face and body, and it was obvious she was in fear of Convey.
When he was removed from the scene, the victim outlined allegations of assault. She claimed Convey had tried to suffocate her with a dog bed, attempted to choke her, kicked her numerous times, hit her over the head with a pole, stood on her throat and dragged her round the premises by her hair.
Convey was arrested and made ‘no comment’ replies to all questions put to him.
Objecting to bail the officer said police had serious concerns that the defendant would reoffend, could be a risk to himself and others and may try to go back to a domestic setting and his partner. He was described as having an extensive criminal record, and there is a domestic violence history.
Bail has been breached on occasions in the past and Convey has convictions for witness intimidation.
Under defence cross-examination the investigating officer confirmed injuries were noted on Convey but he had refused to allow police to document them while in custody.
The defence argued the alleged injured party is currently living in the Derry area and the bail address put forward, that of Convey’s mother in Newtownbutler, is some 70 miles away.
Underscoring the opposition to bail the officer said, “There is a substantial domestic violence history and the victim is terrified of the defendant.”
Refusing bail Deputy District Judge Bonita Boyd remarked, “I do not see why this was listed for a bail reconsideration as I see no change in circumstances.
Nevertheless I have reconsidered the details and remain of the view there is a real and substantial risk of reoffending and a high likelihood of failing to comply with custody.”
Convey was remanded in continuing custody to reappear by video-link on 5 August.
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