A north Belfast man allegedly stamped on a heavily pregnant teenager’s head, the High Court heard today.
Prosecutors also claimed Owen Johnston, 20, repeatedly punched and pulled out clumps of her hair during an attack at his flat in the New Lodge area.
Johnston, of Cu Chulainn House on Victoria Parade, faces charges of false imprisonment, attempted grievous bodily harm and assault occasioning actual bodily harm. He was arrested after police were alerted to the suspected violent outburst at the address on February 14.
During his application for bail the court heard a neighbour called at the flat after hearing the female screeching for help, but Johnston refused to let her leave. Crown counsel Fiona O’Kane disclosed that the alleged victim is 17 years old and currently 31 weeks pregnant.
Officers subsequently located the teenager at her own home, in a distressed state and with multiple injuries, including bruises to her face and body and bald patches on her head. She alleged that Johnston had become agitated and angry during an argument earlier that day.
“He then slapped her to the side of her head, causing her to fall back onto the floor,” Mrs O’Kane submitted.
“When she tried to get up he stamped on her head, causing her to fall back again and hit her head off the floor.”
Johnston continued kicking at the teenager as she put her hands over her head for self protection, according to her account.
“He started punching her a number of times, grabbing and pulling her hair, and she screamed for him to stop, alerting neighbours who came to the front door,” counsel said.
At that stage she allegedly shouted “help me, help me” and attempted to get out past him, but was pushed back before the door was slammed shut. It was claimed that he calmed down at this point and told her to relax.
“When he went into another room she took that opportunity to grab her pet dog and run out of the flat,” Mrs O’Kane added.
Opposing bail, the prosecutor contended: “He assaulted a vulnerable girl who is heavily pregnant. She described him as a nasty and vicious person towards her.”
A defence barrister acknowledged the seriousness of the charges but argued that Johnston has his own vulnerabilities. Mr Justice Rooney was told that Johnston denies any attempt to stamp on the alleged victim.
“He says there was a dispute that became physical, and is apologetic for the nature of the interaction,” his lawyer said.
With the accused seeking permission to live at his mother’s home in another part of Belfast, the judge demanded more assurances before deciding if it was safe to release him. He told the defence to provide details on any medical appointments or anger management sessions Johnston could attend.
Adjourning the application, Mr Justice Rooney stressed: “Just because I’m asking you to do this doesn’t mean I am going to grant this man bail. You are going to have to convince me.”
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