A Newry man accused of armed robbery of a store in Warrenpoint has been granted bail despite objections from police.
Giving evidence, a constable informed the court that the 32-year-old had been bailed on suspicion of “two other armed robberies in the district”.
James Alan Kennedy, of Loanda Crescent, appeared charged with robbery, possessing a bladed article in a public place and possession of Class B at the city’s Magistrates’ Court via videolink from police custody.
Outlining the background to the charges, a constable stated that on July 16, at 6.30pm police received a report of a robbery from Linda’s Super Shop on Duke Street, Warrenpoint.
A male had entered the store with a knife and threatened two female members of staff, before making off with £150 in cash.
Officers reviewed CCTV which showed a male walking on East Street, away from Duke Street, removing his mask, and he was subsequently identified as the defendant.
Objecting to bail, the constable informed the court that Kennedy had been bailed on suspicion of “two other armed robberies in the district”.
He stated that police believed there was a risk of further offences or interference with witnesses.
District Judge King granted the defendant his own bail of £250, with a cash surety of £250. Conditions of this include that he is not to enter Warrenpoint, not to consume alcohol, have no contact with the allege injured party and to provide the PSNI with his mobile number.
The case was then adjourned until September for an update.
ENDS
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