NNSL (DEC 20/96) - An Alberta man will spend Christmas and New Year's in a Yellowknife jail cell.

Judge Michel Bourassa ordered the 25-year-old man, who's been living in the city for six months, held in custody on drunk driving and assault charges after a bail hearing Tuesday morning.

The charges stem from two separate incidents in September and December.

Crown lawyer Sandra Aitken asked Bourassa to remand the man in custody because she feared he might not show up in court for his next appearance.

Defence lawyer Joan Mercredi, who said the man wasn't yet prepared to enter pleas, said he had planted sufficient roots in Dettah to keep him in the area and ensure future court appearances.

Bourassa wasn't convinced, and went along with the Crown's suggestion.

The man is scheduled to next appear in territorial court Jan. 7, where he is expected to enter pleas on each charge.