A SOLDIER in the Army appeared before Strabane Magistrates Court yesterday charged with stealing money from 10 Catholic churches in the North.
Private Philip Augustine Clerkin (46), from Sandy Row, Castlefin, who is based in Lifford, Co Donegal, is accused of carrying out the offences between September 1st last year and Wednesday of this week.
One charge relates to the Long Tower Church in Derry and the rest to churches in Co Tyrone including Omagh, Strabane, Sion Mills, Plumbridge, Donemana and Castlederg.
Private Clerkin walked into the courtroom wearing a cap and was ordered by the Resident Magistrate, Mr Robert Porter, to remove it.
With members of his family as well as Capt Kevin McCarthy of the Lifford barracks in court, the accused man stood with his hands behind his back as an RUC detective constable gave evidence.
The police officer said, when charged with the offences, the accused made no reply. He said he was opposed to any remand on bail because he could not be certain the defendant would turn up for trial.
Mr John Duffy, defending, said the defendant came before the court with a clear record and with 24 years Army service. He said the Army could ensure that he turned up for trial. He said two of the defendant's brothers were prepared to act as surety.
The magistrate said the defendant had "a remarkable propensity in relation to the alleged crimes" and that remanding him on bail to an address outside the jurisdiction could cause problems.
"It is with a degree of reluctance that I agree to the application for bail," said the magistrate.
The defendant was remanded on bail until March 7th on condition that he reside with his brother in Plumbridge and that he reports to Donemana RUC Station daily. Bail was fixed at £500 with one surety of £5,000.