Accused of stabbing friend at a party

Taylor Davidson was refused bail over allegations that he inflicted three knife wounds to the victim’s leg and hip during a row at a house in Killyleagh, Co Down.

Citing concerns over potential re-offending, Madam Justice McBride said: “It’s my view there’s a serious risk of harm to the public.”

Davidson, of Highbury Avenue in the village, is charged with causing grievous bodily harm with intent. He also faces counts of possessing an offensive weapon with intent, and criminal damage by spitting in a PSNI vehicle.

The injured man was taken to hospital by air ambulance for treatment to wounds sustained on June 21. He was allegedly attacked following a 21st birthday party at the house on Osborne Drive.

A previous court heard claims that Davidson had been asked to leave, but responded by punching the victim twice.

He is then accused of stabbing the victim with a knife taken from the property.

During interviews Davidson said he had “blacked out” after taking a cocktail of alcohol, cocaine and pills, the court was told.

But his lawyer insisted that he had been trying to take a knife from the victim amid fears of self-harm.

Defence counsel Tom McCreanor cited delays in the case. He also argued that Davidson had shown concern towards the injured man.

Siobhan McCrory, prosecuting, confirmed the application was strongly opposed.

Denying bail, however, Madam Justice McBride said: “I have carefully considered if there are conditions to minimise and control the risk, and it’s my view I cannot do that.”