Woman who intervened in a domestic dispute in Offaly received black eye

A woman who intervened in an argument between a couple received a black eye last week's district court heard.

Melanie Ward (29) 89, Church Hill, Tullamore was charged with an assault on Maureen Ward. In his evidence to the court Sgt James O'Sullivan said Garda Crowley had been called to the scene where Maureen Ward had been babysitting for the defendant.

An argument broke out between Melanie Ward and her husband Bernie. Maureen Ward, an aunt of the defendant's husband, was assaulted and received a black eye. She suffered from headaches and slight concussion as a result.

Sgt O'Sullivan said Melanie Ward admitted that she hit Maureen Ward once or twice on the face.

On July 13, 2022, at Chancery Walk, Tullamore, Nora Ward alleged that she had been assaulted by Melanie Ward outside her house. She had visible cuts to her head and blood was coming from it, said Sgt O'Sullivan. Melanie Ward admitted assaulting Nora Ward.

Melanie Ward had two previous convictions both for public order offences.

Solicitor Donal Farrelly said the dispute had arisen between Melanie and her husband and she didn't want his aunt interfering. He said matters have since improved and they have gotten back together. He said the second assault was related to the first dispute.

Mr Farrelly said the family are moving from the area and he felt they might benefit from the restorative justice process.

Judge Andrew Cody asked if the family are willing to engage with the restorative justice process, Sgt James O'Sullivan said he wasn't aware if they were.

Judge Andrew Cody remanded Melanie Ward on continuing bail and put the case back for a probation report to July 19, 2023.

He said if there was any more trouble, they wouldn't benefit from the probation services.