A County Tyrone man has been remanded in custody after a court heard allegations he started a chainsaw and swung it at a woman during a dispute.

John Black, 44, of Aghintogher Road, Dungannon, appeared before a court and was denied bail. He faces charges including two counts of common assault against a man and a woman, attempted grievous bodily harm with intent against another woman, possession of a weapon, and intent to commit an indictable offence.

The incident allegedly occurred at a property in County Tyrone. A detective constable told the court that the defendant had been in a house with three others. After feeling ignored during a conversation, Black retrieved a chainsaw and started it in an effort to gain attention. He struck a table with the tool, and the woman had to move to avoid being struck. She fled and contacted police.

When officers arrived, Black ran across fields but later returned and made admissions. He told police he had sent a text message to the woman and became annoyed when she did not reply. He admitted starting the chainsaw and acknowledged that his actions would have caused fear.

The court heard that Black has 35 previous convictions, including a terrorism offence, five breaches of court orders, and possession of an offensive weapon. The judge described the incident as serious, noting that only the victim’s movement prevented more severe consequences. Bail was refused due to the nature of the alleged offence and the risk of a repeat offence.

The case has been adjourned to Dungannon Crown Court on July 15.