Man Faces Multiple Charges in Court, Including False Imprisonment

A man appeared via videolink from Waterside Custody Suite at Coleraine Magistrates Court this afternoon to face multiple serious charges, including false imprisonment, assault, and possession of offensive weapons.

The accused, from Portstewart’s Lever Park area, confirmed his identity as the charges were formally presented. A police constable stated that he could directly connect Conway to the allegations.

Conway, 40, was arrested in Portstewart on Saturday, 22 February 2025, following an investigation that began after a bicycle and a bag containing assorted items were found on Strand Road in Coleraine. No application for bail was made, and his solicitor indicated that Conway plans to contest all charges.

Court documents allege that on 27 January 2025, Conway unlawfully imprisoned and detained an individual, and he now also faces charges of common assault, as well as theft of keys and a bank card. Further allegations include the theft of several items, described as adult toys, from the same individual prior to 13 February 2025.

On that latter date, Conway was reportedly found in possession of offensive weapons, including knives and hammers, with the intent to commit an indictable offence. He is additionally charged with engaging in a course of abusive behaviour towards the individual from September 2024 until 13 February 2025.

Additional charges include an allegation from 28 November 2024 that he disclosed a private sexual image or video, causing distress, and on an unspecified date between 25 and 28 November 2024, he damaged the door of a woman’s residence with the intention of destroying property.

Finally, on 11 February 2025, he is accused of not being at his abode while possessing various items – including a balaclava, gloves, knives, a hammer and other tools – intended for use in burglary and theft.

There was no application for bail. The accused’s solicitor confirmed that he intends to contest all charges. The case has been adjourned, with the next update due on 24 March 2025.

It should be noted that police have not established any connection between this case and reports of women being followed in the area. 

Please Note: Police have not linked this case to other reports of women being followed in the area.