District Judge Denies Bail for Dennis Steele Amid Burglary Charges
District Judge Nigel Broderick has denied bail to 46-year-old Dennis Steele, expressing concerns that he may interfere with ongoing investigations and fail to attend future court hearings. Steele, a resident of Cappagh Green in Portstewart, faces a staggering 30 offences including multiple burglaries, thefts, and drug-related charges. This case highlights the growing issues communities face with burglary and property crime.
Multiple Charges Span Over Several Months
The indictment against Steele covers alleged crimes committed between February 23 and September 29 of this year. It includes:
- 19 counts of burglary
- 1 count of attempted burglary
- 3 counts of criminal damage
- 1 count of theft
- 5 drug offences, including possession of cannabis, pregabalin, tramadol, and importing class B cannabis.
Steele is accused of breaking into various properties across Coleraine, Macosquin, Portrush, Portstewart, and Ballymena, as well as a restaurant and a jeweller’s shop. Charges indicate that he stole jewellery worth £86,500 and golfing equipment valued at £15,000 during these incidents.
CCTV Evidence and Investigation Findings
During the proceedings at Ballymena Magistrates Court, which were conducted via video link from police custody, it was revealed that law enforcement had compelling evidence against Steele. Detective Constable Frawley testified that footage from Steele’s own CCTV cameras corroborated his presence at his residence during times that matched the burglaries. Additionally, stolen items were allegedly recovered from Steele’s home, and incriminating photographs were discovered on his partner’s mobile phone.
"Police investigations show a clear connection between Steele and the alleged offences," said DC Frawley. "His pattern of movements and the evidence recovered raise significant concerns regarding his actions and intentions."
Concerns were also raised regarding Steele’s alleged association with another suspect, 39-year-old Samuel Todd, whose DNA was found at several crime scenes. Todd is currently in custody facing 24 charges linked to burglary, theft, and criminal damage.
Court Hearings and Concerns Over Flight Risk
Judge Broderick highlighted the risk presented by Steele should he be granted bail. The Judge noted the defendant’s prior convictions for similar offences and emphasized that police had previously attempted to apprehend Steele, only for him to evade arrest by fleeing the scene.
"Given the pattern of behaviour and the significant number of offences, I believe releasing Steele on bail poses a risk that he may abscond or impede police investigations," said Judge Broderick, ultimately remanding Steele into custody pending further hearings. The next court date is set for November 18.
Defense Arguments and Legal Perspective
Eoghan McKenna, Steele’s defence solicitor, argued for his client’s release on bail, citing Steele’s prior police bail status and the lengthy timeline projected for the case’s progression. McKenna stated that while Steele and Todd were captured on CCTV together, the two had been cohabiting, offering an innocent explanation for their association.
"Releasing Steele with stringent conditions can ensure both public safety and compliance with court proceedings," McKenna argued.
The Implications for the Local Community
This case brings to the forefront growing concerns about property crimes in Northern Ireland. Communities in the affected areas have experienced an unsettling rise in burglaries and thefts, raising questions about safety and security. Local law enforcement agencies are calling for an increased focus on community policing and crime prevention strategies.
As the legal proceedings continue, Steele’s case serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenge authorities face in tackling property crime. It raises awareness about the importance of solidarity and vigilant practices among residents to safeguard their homes and neighborhoods.
For readers looking for further information on local crime trends and community measures, you might explore our related articles on crime prevention strategies and police-community partnerships.
With ongoing coverage of this case, we invite readers to share their thoughts on crime in their neighborhoods and the steps that should be taken to address these issues. Your voices matter, and together we can foster a safer community.
