14/12/2007

Man Bailed In 'Abduction' Case

The man who was arrested in relation to an apparent child abduction in Derry has been bailed after a court appearance today.

Patrick Feely, 36, of Linenhall Street in Limavady, told the court that he 'was drunk' and mistook a Londonderry child for his own son.

The 'snatch' had been foiled by the child's father, aided by passers-by, who intervened during the incident, at Foyle Street at 4.40pm on Wednesday.

Although the child was unhurt during the ordeal, the 36 year-old man was arrested and charged.

Accused of abducting and assaulting the two-year-old boy concerned, he claimed in court that he mistook him for his son, as he was "hopelessly intoxicated".

Londonderry Magistrates Court heard that there was no sexual undercurrent to the incident in the city on Wednesday.

A defence lawyer said his client had no recollection of the incident.

The accused was released on bail and ordered to abstain from alcohol.

He is to appear in court again next month.

(BMcC)

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