Accused of assaulting ex-girlfriend two times

Scott McIlwee, of Parkmore Drive, Strathfoyle, is charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm, common assault and possessing the class C drug pregabalin.

The charges relate to alleged incidents on April 10 and May 2.

Derry Magistrate’s Court heard that the complainant went to McIlwee’s home to collect some of her belongings.

The defendant allegedly prevented her from leaving, punched her in the face a number of times and kicked her.

She allegedly sustained a range of injuries, including a cut lip, a black eye and other bruising and a bump to the head.

The second assault allegedly occurred while McIlwee and the complainant were arguing about child care. He allegedly punched and kicked her, causing further injuries.

The 23-year-old was arrested and was found to be in possession of pregabalin.

During police interview, McIlwee claimed the woman caused the injuries to herself on both occasions. He denied punching the woman and claimed he only pushed her away from him.

The court heard McIlwee has 36 previous convictions, however, none of these relate to the complainant.

Opposing bail, an investigating officer said police have concerns the 23-year-old will interfere with the witness and commit further offences.

Defence counsel Sean Doherty said the complainant has not made an official statement yet and without her co-operation the case will take considerably longer to come to a conclusion.

District Judge Ted Magill released McIlwee with a number of conditions.

The conditions include a ban on having any contact with the woman.

He is also banned from possessing non-prescribed drugs and is banned from abusing prescription medication.

McIlwee will appear in court again later this month.