Belfast Man's Shocking Allegations: Strangling Grandmother for Money

A Belfast man accused of assaulting and strangling his 'vulnerable' grandmother whilst demanding she give him money was refused bail today.

Charges and Allegations
The application to release Bernard O'Neill from custody was made, and rejected, at Belfast Crown Court. O'Neill has been charged with three offences involving his grandmother - attempted robbery, non-fatal strangulation, and common assault.

Incident Details
It's the Crown's case that on July 6 last year, O'Neill is accused of entering his grandmother's home in the Ardoyne area. He allegedly put both hands around her throat, preventing her from breathing, and demanded money and her bank card. The pensioner, described as 'in her 70s' and 'vulnerable,' managed to crawl to her back door while O'Neill continued to demand her bank card. Police arrived to find her in distress, expressing fear for her life.

Bail Refusal and Concerns
Police objected to O'Neill being granted bail due to a history of domestic incidents, concerns of further offending, and potential risks. The prosecutor highlighted O'Neill's previous disappearance while on bail, concerns about a close proposed bail address, and a pattern of demanding money from female relatives.

Court Decision
Although the defence barrister acknowledged O'Neill's challenges, the Judge ultimately denied bail, citing concerns for public safety and the likelihood of re-offending. O'Neill remains in custody as the case progresses.