Cork man accused of pouring boiling water over woman and stabbing her partner asks for case to be struck out

Accused is without legal representation because of the solicitors’ strike over changes to the free legal aid scheme

The judge remanded the accused man in custody until July 21 for DPP directions. Picture: Larry Cummins

A kettle of boiling water was allegedly poured over a woman in her bedroom by a man who kicked in her front door, and her partner was stabbed in the face with a scissors, it was alleged in a case where the accused man was remanded in custody until July 21.

Judge David Waters said: “It appears this is not a minor matter and it is likely going to be dealt with by judge and jury.” 

The judge remanded the accused man, Michael O’Connor, in custody until July 21 for DPP directions.

Appearing by video link from prison, Michael O’Connor said: “On the advice of my solicitor today I am asking for a strike out.” 

He is without legal representation because of the solicitors’ strike over changes to the free legal aid scheme.

Judge Waters said he was not going to strike the case out. He said being remanded in custody since May 14 was not such a long time in terms of preparation of a book of evidence.

Detective Sergeant Colin Greenway objected to bail for 43-year-old Michael O’Connor, of no fixed address, on the basis of the seriousness of the alleged burglary.

“On April 28, a male and female attended the Anglesea Garda station public office after 1am and they both reported that they were victims of an assault which was alleged to have occurred within the property at Old Blackrock Road, Cork City.

“It was alleged two males known to them kicked in the front door of the apartment causing damage. They both alleged that they were assaulted by a Michael O'Connor and another male. Both parties alleged that they were assaulted with a scissors and the female alleged that she had a kettle of boiling hot water poured over her.

“The woman presented with visible burns and scalding to her neck and body and was having trouble catching her breath. The man sustained three minor stab wounds to his face and body as a result of the alleged scissors attack.

“They were both taken to Mercy University Hospital by ambulance,” Det Sgt. Greenway said.