Young Corkman accused of attacking sleeping mother with saucepan awaits DPP instructions

Garda Simone Gilman-Burke previously objected to bail being granted to the accused and outlined allegations at an in camera hearing of Cork District Court. File picture: Larry Cummins

A 24-year-old man accused of attacking his mother with as she slept by allegedly striking her violently across the face with a saucepan had the case against him adjourned until June 10 for directions from the DPP.

Sergeant Dave Delea said directions were awaited from the Director of Public Prosecutions, and Judge Mary Dorgan adjourned the case.

Garda Simone Gilman-Burke previously objected to bail being granted to the accused and outlined allegations at an in camera hearing of Cork District Court.

The parties cannot be identified as one of the charges is brought under the Domestic Violence Act, namely the count alleging a breach of a protection order. The 24-year-old man is also charged with assault causing harm.

The woman who is aged around 50 believes that if her son is granted bail he would return to her home in Cork and may even kill her. She said he is hearing voices in his head which are telling him to do things.

The accused denied that his mother was asleep at the time.

The defendant’s mother told Judge Dorgan: “There was a slam. There was blood everywhere. I kicked him. He walked out. He has voices telling him what to do at this stage. He has serious mental health.” 

Garda Gilman-Burke said that on Saturday night, March 9, it was alleged that the accused walked into his mother’s bedroom and struck her in the face as she slept, causing her nose to bleed heavily and leaving her with a swollen eye. 

It was also alleged that it was unprovoked and she was entirely vulnerable.