A MAN accused of involvement in a cocaine and cannabis dealing network in Belfast made "loud snorting noises" during police interviews, the High Court heard today.
Prosecutors claimed Glenn Rainey covered his head with clothing as detectives questioned him about his suspected role in the illicit trade.
But a defence lawyer argued that the 35-year-old has respiratory problems associated with a collapsed lung.
Rainey, from McArthur Court in the city, was among three men arrested last week in an investigation into criminality linked to the East Belfast UVF.
Refusing his application for bail, a judge described the risk of further offences as unmanageable.
Rainey is charged with a series of offences, including being concerned in the supply of Class A, B and C drugs.
His 41-year-old brother, Mark Rainey, of St Patrick's Walk in Belfast, and William Hunter, from Upper Canning Street in the city, face similar counts.
All three men deny the charges and are not accused of any paramilitary offences.
According to the prosecution, however, phone evidence allegedly connects them to dealing on a wholesale basis.
Police also recovered £2,000 in cash during searches carried out last November.
In a second operation on August 23, officers located a quantity of cocaine, scales and "thousands" of suspected deal bags at Glenn Rainey's home, the court heard.
A Crown lawyer, who opposed bail, said: "During the course of the interview I'm told that he made no response, but sat there with an item of clothing over his head making loud snorting noises.
"His behaviour completely underlines his attitude towards police."
Defence barrister Sean Devine argued that keeping Glenn Rainey in custody would deny him the regular daily walks he takes to ease a collapsed lung condition.
Referring to the noises his client allegedly made during interviews, Mr Devine insisted: "That is part and parcel of the respiratory condition that he has."
But prosecution counsel maintained that Rainey made no mention of any respiratory problems. Bail was denied.