Coleraine, Ireland – A man appeared in Limavady Magistrate’s Court, facing charges of attempted murder, assault, and threat to kill following a violent attack on June 17. Andrew Yearl, 27, allegedly attacked a man at his residence in Garvagh, causing severe injuries that led to the victim being hospitalized. The incident was described as a brutal assault, with the victim sustaining wounds to his head, body, and legs.
The court heard that Yearl, accompanied by another individual, entered the victim’s home late at night and proceeded to beat him with a pull-up bar, allegedly inquiring about the whereabouts of a dog. The victim was left with grave injuries and had to be sedated due to the severity of the attack. Additionally, a dog found at Yearl’s residence showed signs of severe injuries and had to be euthanized, adding an animal cruelty charge to the list of offenses.
Despite Yearl having no previous criminal record, the police raised concerns about potential witness interference and proximity to the victim’s family home if bail was granted. The prosecution argued that the attack stemmed from a dispute over a missing dog, highlighting the escalating violence and threats leading up to the incident.
Defense counsel Alan Stewart attempted to provide context for the animal cruelty charge, claiming that Yearl had been provoked by the dog in question and acted in self-defense. However, District Judge Peter King expressed reservations about releasing Yearl on bail due to the absence of key evidence, including the alleged weapon used in the assault.
As a result, Judge King denied bail and remanded Yearl into custody, setting a court date for further proceedings on July 8. The case underscores the gravity of the charges faced by Yearl and the complexities surrounding the investigation, shedding light on the violent nature of the attack and the legal implications it carries.