Man accused of 'professional' spree of creeper-style burglaries in Belfast and Co Down must remain in custody

The alleged offences were committed over a four-day period from February 1-4.

Prosecutors said a Seat Arona vehicle was stolen during the first raid at Park Parade in Belfast.

Two days later cash, bank cards, a driving licence and prescription drugs were taken from two cars parked outside a house at Church Lodge in Comber.

Thieves entered an unlocked property at Crescent Mews in the town on the same night, lifted keys and stole a Vauxhall Corsa.

On February 4 a resident at Albion Court in Comber discovered her Peugeot 308 was missing.

Keys, a television, laptop and microwave were also taken by intruders who again got into the house by an unlocked front door.

Another woman reported seeing two men acting suspiciously in the town that night, passing items between the Seat and Peugeot vehicles.

When police arrived at the scene the Arona drove off, colliding with a PNI car.

It was alleged that McMenemy also made off on foot, apparently running after the Seat, but was arrested.

According to the prosecution his clothing matched a description on CCTV from one of the incidents.

Items from all three burglaries were discovered in the Arona when it was subsequently recovered, a Crown lawyer said.

"It would appear that the applicant and his co-accused, who has not yet been identified, were passing items from the Peugeot into the Arona when they were seen by the witness," she added.

During interviews McMenemy claimed he was at home with his partner watching Netflix on the night of the Belfast break-in.

He made no comment when asked about the burglaries in Comber.

The court heard steps are now expected to be taken to revoke a licence McMenemy is currently subject to for other matters.

Defence counsel Conor Holmes confirmed McMenemy does not accept the charges.

He predicted that due to the lengthy investigation any trial may not be held until next year.

Denying bail, however, Mr Justice Larkin cited the risk of re-offending based on the alleged crime-spree.

"It had a professional character, and from that one can draw certain inferences that this is someone who is engaged in commercial criminality," the judge said.

"Although burglary of a dwelling is formally characterised as an offence against property, it is in reality an offence against the person.

"It's effect on individuals is striking and far-reaching."

Belfast Telegraph