A 41-year-old man from Lawrence Hill in Derry appeared at the city's Magistrate’s Court on Monday. Neil McFeely faces charges of assaulting a female and causing actual bodily harm, plus breaching a restraining order. The incident occurred on March 7.

A Police Service of Northern Ireland officer linked McFeely to both charges and opposed bail. The officer noted McFeely's 43 prior convictions and described him as having a significant history of domestic incidents. Police assessed him as posing a risk of significant harm to the alleged victim and stated he would likely fail to follow bail conditions.

Defence solicitor Paddy MacDermott accepted the restraining order breach but denied the assault charge. MacDermott explained that McFeely lives across the corridor from the woman. He said they are a couple, had been drinking together, and argued.

MacDermott requested bail to a PSNI-approved address.

The judge refused bail, stating McFeely would not comply with conditions. He is due to appear again on March 26.