A man accused of throwing masonry and wood at police during the removal of a West Belfast bonfire has apologised for his actions, a court heard today.
Jonathan Turner, 25, was allegedly among a large crowd who attacked officers providing support to contractors clearing the site at Distillery Street on August 8.
A total of 29 PSNI officers were injured in the disorder. Turner, of Grosvenor Court in the city, appeared at Belfast Magistrates’ Court charged with riotous behaviour and attempted grievous bodily harm with intent.
A judge was told police were targeted when they formed a cordon to assist council workers removing the bonfire material. Turner was identified on several occasions throwing large pieces of wood and masonry, it was claimed.
At one point he disappeared from view, but re-emerged with his T-shirt off and allegedly continued to pelt police lines. Opposing bail, a PSNI officer said: “He threw a large object at a constable who described it as a heavy metal object.”
Arrangements were made for police to speak to Turner after he featured among images of people sought in connection with the disturbances. During questioning he identified himself in footage from the incident and accepted throwing a piece of wood, the court heard.
Defence solicitor Brendan Blaney confirmed: “He has made admissions during interview, and my instructions are that he has also apologised. He said this was not planned involvement in public disorder, it was indeed a reactionary behaviour which he very much regrets.”
Mr Blaney stressed the trouble never spread beyond the Distillery Street area. He also disclosed that his client has underlying issues with ADHD (Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) and spent most of his school years outside mainstream education.
Granting bail for Turner to live at his mother’s home, District Judge Fiona Bagnall imposed a curfew and alcohol ban. She told him to appear back in court next month.
