A South Belfast prepper, Ralph Caldwell, secured bail. Police now have permission to enter his home. This ensures compliance with strict bail conditions.
Caldwell awaits trial since May 2021 and faces 22 charges overall. Twenty-one involve possessing guns illegally; one concerns potassium nitrate possession.
He was re-arrested while on bail; this arose from a May 2024 search of his home. They allegedly found shotguns and chemicals, and other items were taken too.
Caldwell’s lawyer mentioned his “prepper” status earlier, stating that Caldwell prepares for disaster events. Because of trial delays, the lawyer argued for bail.
His lawyer said prison is hard for Caldwell. The December 2024 trial, which concerns the charges dating back to May 2021, did not happen.
Barristers are striking over Legal Aid right now; therefore, the lawyer argued this could delay Caldwell’s trial, potentially postponing it for a while.
The lawyer questioned the May arrest. He stated that without a forensic report, there’s no proof. He stated this lack of proof suggests the items were illegal.
A lawyer for the Crown spoke about the report and said many items were seized. This caused delays, but a report should be ready soon.
The seized items include pipes and shotgun shells, as well as 3D-printed guns, bullets, and powder. The prosecutor acknowledged the delays involved, and that police and forensics teams are working together.
He told the judge the material looks suspicious. “It doesn’t look like there is an innocent purpose.” He doubted there was a good reason for this material to be there.
The Crown lawyer worried about Caldwell’s release, stating that Caldwell repeated the same acts after getting bail in 2021. He argued public safety is important and outweighs the trial delays. The circumstances make public safety the main concern.
Judge Lynch noted the missing forensic report. He granted bail because of the trial delay, stating it’s a balancing act between justice and safety.
Lynch set strict rules for Caldwell, namely, he must report to police daily and cannot possess guns or substances. These rules aim to keep the community safe.
The Crown wanted to search Caldwell’s home often to ensure he follows bail rules. Caldwell and his lawyer objected to this strongly.
The lawyer agreed police could enter with suspicion but felt random searches were not needed. This request felt like overreach from authorities.
He told the judge Caldwell has been in compliance. He reported Caldwell said he will not repeat past mistakes. He seeks to show respect for the law.
Judge Lynch said home inspections are needed to stop Caldwell from re-offending. This helps ensure public safety for everyone.
Caldwell then accused the police of stealing money during searches, unexpectedly interrupting court proceedings.
Caldwell said he was unhappy about police entering and planting items in his house. He insisted nothing illegal was ever in his home.
Judge Lynch stated that the jury decides that claim. The Judge remarked, “That’s ultimately for the jury to decide.” He then said, “if you don’t want bail, that’s alright with me.”
The judge granted bail with conditions imposed. Any violations mean Caldwell returns to jail until his 2021 trial happens.
