CIARAN WOOTTON FROM CASTLEDERG FACES SERIOUS CHARGES IN DUNGANNON COURT

Ciaran Wootton, a 28-year-old man residing on Main Street in Castlederg, appeared before Dungannon Magistrates’ Court today to face multiple serious allegations involving assault, harassment, and misuse of communication networks. The charges stem from incidents that allegedly took place between April 4 and April 21, with police linking these accusations directly to Wootton.

According to the prosecution, Wootton is accused of engaging in a pattern of threatening and abusive behavior towards a female victim. Among the most alarming allegations are claims that he made explicit threats to kill her and her child, which prompted his arrest. However, during the court proceedings, a PSNI officer clarified that the charge related to threats could not be pursued at this stage because the victim was not present when the threats were allegedly made. The officer also noted that Wootton’s arrest was partly due to his violation of bail conditions, which included wearing an electronic monitoring tag as a result of previous motoring offenses.

Evidence presented in court detailed Wootton’s use of WhatsApp to threaten the woman. The messages reportedly contained violent language and explicit threats, including promises to burn her car, set her house on fire, and harm her physically. One particularly disturbing message read: 'I’ve a key. I know where you live. Tag or no tag, I’m coming to see you soon.' The woman also disclosed that Wootton had physically assaulted her two weeks prior, grabbing her and forcing her to the ground. Although he later apologized and took her out for an evening, the history of violence did not end there.

Further incidents included Wootton attempting to force entry into her home and causing damage to property. During this period, the woman discovered that £160 was missing from her belongings, along with a spare car key. When she confronted Wootton about the theft, he denied any involvement. Wootton’s criminal record is extensive, with a total of 26 previous convictions, which the court took into account when considering bail. The magistrates decided to refuse bail, citing his history of breaches and the seriousness of the charges.

Wootton is scheduled to return to court on May 8, where he will appear via video link. The case continues to draw attention due to the severity of the allegations and the history of violence associated with the defendant from Castlederg.