Two Derry men have faced court charges over the theft of a staff swipe card and an RFID scanner from Altnagelvin Hospital.

Keelan Murray, 19, of no fixed abode, and Liam Murray, 21, of Hydebank, were charged with stealing the items on July 25 last year.

Police were called after hospital staff discovered a swipe card had been used to access the records department. The men had entered through the main doors and gone into staff offices to take the card, which provided access to most of the building.

An RFID scanner worth £5,000 was also taken. CCTV identified the two men, and one was seen recording activities on a phone. Staff saw them during the night.

Police later found Keelan Murray at an address, recognizing him by his clothing. He told police he was homeless and had gone to the hospital for shelter. He said he met Liam Murray there and denied stealing anything, answering no comment to other questions.

Liam Murray attended a police station voluntarily and answered no comment in interview. His fingerprints were found on the swipe box at the records room door.

Keelan Murray has 13 previous burglary convictions, while Liam Murray has 105 previous convictions, including 15 thefts. Both have histories of drug abuse and were said to be under the influence that night.

Liam Murray reportedly told police he would not have committed the offences had he been sober.

Keelan Murray was sentenced to 16 months, half in custody and half on licence. Liam Murray's case was adjourned until February 1.