£80k bill for police car arson

Prosecutors claimed on Wednesday that James McLaughlin torched the specially-equipped Ford Mondeo and also threatened to set fire to PSNI officers at a farm in Co Derry.

He is also accused of threatening his mother with a golf club during the same incident.

The 30-year-old, of Glenshane Road, Feeny, faces charges of arson, five counts of making a threat to kill, possession of offensive weapons, threatening to damage property and attempted arson.

McLaughlin's father called police out on 8 September over claims that he had arrived home high on drink and drugs and threatened his wife, the court heard.

Officers allegedly discovered the accused in a back garden holding a petrol canister, a lighter and hurley stick.

Opposing his application for bail, prosecution barrister Nicola Auret claimed McLaughlin approached police and shouted: "I don't give a f*** about you. I will set you all on fire".

At that point he tried to throw petrol over the officers, who drew their guns and issued warnings, the court heard.

Petrol was also allegedly poured over two police cars, but only the Mondeo ignited.

Ms Auret said McLaughlin dropped the canister and ran off with officers giving chase.

Police used CS spray to detain him as he was swinging the hurley stick, a judge was told.

Ms Auret also disclosed: "The vehicle that was set alight was an armoured police vehicle and was damaged beyond repair.

"It will cost in excess of £80,000 to replace."

McLaughlin was said to have admitted the arson during interview, but denied all other alleged offences.

Defence barrister Des Fahy acknowledged that finding appropriate accommodation was central to the request for bail.

He told the court the preferred option was for his client to return to his home address, with his mother agreeing to act as a surety.

However, Mr Justice Maguire adjourned the application until the accused's parents can attend court later in the week.

He said: "I need to assess their ability to deal with the situation."