Man (50s) appears in court over alleged attack on elderly resident in Westmeath nursing home
Peter Keaney leaving Athlone District Court this morning.
Peter Keaney was remanded in custody, by consent, for one week by Judge Bernadette Owens.
Peter Keaney.
A man has appeared in court charged with attacking an elderly woman in a midlands nursing home.
Peter Keaney (54) of Hillside Close, Monksland, Athlone, Co Roscommon, appeared before Judge Bernadette Owens at Athlone District Court this morning charged with assault causing harm of the woman at Sonas Nursing Home, Ballymahon Road, Athlone on Monday April 29.
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Dressed in a beige wool jumper, blue jeans and navy sandals the accused trembled throughout the short hearing.
Peter Keaney was remanded in custody, by consent, for one week by Judge Bernadette Owens.
Court presenter Sergeant Paul McNally, gave evidence of arrest, charge and caution and told Judge Owens it was his understanding there would be no application for bail.
He requested Mr Keaney be remanded in custody to a later date.
Solicitor for the accused Mark Cooney, told Judge Owens there would be no application for bail but his client was “reserving his position in that regard.”
Sergeant McNally asked the gardai be given 48 hours’ notice in the event the accused Mr Keaney does apply for bail.
Judge Owens granted Sergeant McNally’s request.
Peter Keaney.
Judge Owens asked if there was anything else needed to be said about Mr Keaney.
Mark Cooney, the accused defence solicitor asked his client be referred for a psychiatric assessment and could a report be furnished to the court.
Mr Cooney also applied for legal aid and for Mr Keaney to be produced in court in person on the next date.
The court heard the accused is currently taking part in a community employment scheme.
Judge Owens ordered Mr Keaney be remanded in custody to a date in July and that he be assessed by a psychiatrist and a report be furnished.
