A district judge in Derry warned a 13-year-old boy if he continued to offend “you are going to bring yourself to the attention of paramilitary thugs who will not hesitate to inflict extreme violence on you”. Barney McElholm issued the warning to the boy at the Magistrate’s Court in Derry where the youth appeared on a charge of stealing a quad on December 29th. The boy, who admitted the theft, also admitted breaching previously imposed bail conditions.
A police officer told the court she was concerned for the safety of the boy who had put himself at risk and who had come to the attention of his community by offending against them. Mr McElholm told the boy he was giving him one last chance , but warned him if he breached any of his bail conditions he would be remanded in custody.
The youth was released on his own bail of £100 together with one surety of £200 to appear before the city’s Youth Court later this month. The youth will be electronically tagged and subject to a 9pm-7am curfew.