TWO people whose behaviour led a judge to heavily criticise Covid legislation making breaches fine-only, have appeared back in court exactly one week since they were released on bail.

District Judge Michael Ranaghan vented concerns on being prevented from remanding the pair in custody, noting: “There isn’t a hope in hell of them abiding by Covid regulations.”

Last week, Shania Devenney (21) of Kilmacormick Drive, and Nathan Maguire (21), of Carnmore Lodge, were arrested after police were alerted to anti-social behaviour. Both were charged with contravening Covid restrictions and have had numerous fines handed out since last month.

Police have been dealing with parties at Devenney’s address. Since the beginning of January, there have been 16 occurrences, including people being taken to hospital with suspected drug overdoses.

Having received a further report on January 18, officers discovered Devenney under the influence of drink and drugs. Maguire was located hiding behind a sofa, and disclosed he had tested positive for Covid. Despite being told to isolate, he had failed to do so.

Both have been issued with Covid tickets in the past.

Five police officers had to self-isolate as a result of attending with Maguire.

Devenney has been hosting large gatherings of youths in her home, with regular and new people frequently nightly, and has made it clear she has no intention of abiding by regulations.

Despite police objections, Judge Ranaghan remarked: “I cannot consider remanding [the pair] in custody as these matters are fine-only. The powers-that-be made a significant error when drafting legislation in making these fine-only offences.

“Had I the power to do so, I would definitely be remanding these two in custody. They are a danger to all, including themselves, and more importantly, every police officer who has to deal with them.”

The pair were subsequently released with conditions.

However, on Tuesday (January 26), police again encountered the pair in breach of Covid regulations at Devenney’s home. Maguire was seen exiting by a rear door with another male. Both were arrested and charged.

A defence lawyer for Maguire said he had been instructed to plead guilty to both breaches, and accepted there had been “blatant disregard for the regulations”.

Judge Ranaghan said: “We only have the imposition of fines to deal with people who put the lives of everybody else at risk, and ignore the current guidance around gatherings.”

Maguire was fined a total of £350.

In respect of Devenney, who did not indicate how she intends to plead, police were opposed to bail.

An officer explained: “We have serious concerns. She has stated she will not abide by the regulations, and has proven that and also breached bail. She shows complete disregard for court conditions and the regulations, which is putting others in danger.”

Again, Judge Ranaghan pointed out: “I’m not sure police can oppose bail. We are all in a difficult world here.

“There is currently a Judicial review in its early throes, which may shine some light.

“I’m going to have to release this defendant on bail, and I do so with real hesitation. If I could find any way to keep her in custody, I would.”

Devenney’s case was adjourned for mention at Enniskillen Magistrates Court next week.