Man stole mobile phone from tourist, court told

A FRUIT and veg worker accused of stealing a mobile phone from a Canadian tourist in an alleged pick-pocket incident at the Auld Lammas Fair in Ballycastle has been released on bail.

Ion Razneas (22), a Romanian national with an address at Raheen Avenue in Dublin, appeared before Coleraine Magistrates Court on Monday via video link from Maghaberry Prison where he was previously remanded in connection with the case.

He faces one count of theft which alleges that on Tuesday, August 29 the defendant stole a phone worth $350 from a man.

A prosecutor said the alleged victim was a Canadian tourist who has now returned home.

Defence solicitor Briege Martin said the defendant has lived in Dublin for the last five years where he is a fruit and veg worker.

District Judge Liam McNally said he had previously remanded the defendant in custody on his last occasion before the court because he wanted to hear if he had a criminal record in Dublin or Romania.

The judge said the check from Romania was not due to come back for another couple of weeks but he had now been told the accused has a clear record in the Republic of Ireland.

Judge McNally granted the defendant bail on the sum of £500 along with a cash surety of £1,000 with a condition that he notifies the police of where he is living in Dublin. The case was adjourned until next month.