Toome murder: Police woman's text message read '˜tell him to behave and say nothing'

James McDonagh, 28, from Castledawson died after he was assaulted outside a bar and nightclub complex on the Hillhead Road, Toome

Cathy Thompson faces two charges of perverting the course of justice and a charge of withholding information relating to the murder of James McDonagh on January 11.

The 33-year-old is alleged to have committed the offences between January 10 and 16.

One charge of perverting the course of justice related to a text message which she allegedly sent.

The message stated: “Yeah, don’t have anything in the house that you should not have. They will search the whole house for clothing.”

The second charge of perverting the course of justice relates to a second message which read: “Tell him to behave and say nothing”.

A detective sergeant said that he believed the defendant could be connected to the charges.

The defendant was released on personal bail of £500 and the case was adjourned until April 13.

Mr McDonagh, of Castledawson, died in the Royal Victoria Hospital, Belfast, from head injuries.

A 24-year-old man has been charged with his murder.