A 28-year-old Newtownabbey man has been remanded in custody after appearing in court on charges relating to two alleged attacks on a house in the town over a 24-hour period in May.

Brendan Devine of Glenville Park appeared at Belfast Magistrates Court on Monday. He faces charges of aggravated burglary with intent to inflict grievous bodily harm, criminal damage, and assault occasioning actual bodily harm.

Police allege that on May 28, Devine entered the property at Moyard Grove with two other people while carrying a knife. A man inside was assaulted and suffered lacerations to his head. Extensive damage was caused to the kitchen area before the group left.

The court heard that on the following day, Devine was allegedly one of three men who attempted to force entry to the same property again. When entry was refused, he is accused of smashing windows in the front door and front room.

No motive for the attacks was disclosed during the hearing. Devine was arrested and questioned at the weekend, and he denied involvement in either incident.

A detective told the court that Devine had been wanted since the incidents in May, that he had been avoiding police, and on two occasions he ran from officers. The detective opposed bail due to concerns he might flee.

Defence barrister Michael Halleron suggested that doorbell footage from the property called into question the charges against his client. He noted that the alleged incidents happened months ago, and Devine denies the offences and is entitled to the presumption of innocence.

District Judge Steven Keown refused bail, stating that the allegations are extremely serious and that he was satisfied Devine had been actively avoiding police over recent months. Devine was remanded in custody until October 26.