Pressured to drop charges — claim heard in Kildare court
IN-CAMERA
by Court reporter · Leinster LeaderA woman revealed to a Naas District Court judge that her ex-partner has requested her to drop the charges she has brought against him.
Judge Desmond Zaidan was told about the claim by the woman during an in-camera (in private) court session on Thursday, October 3 last.
The woman has accused her ex-partner of domestic violence.
The defendant made no appearance at the court session, and it was heard that the man and the woman have a child together.
When Judge Zaidan asked if the alleged injured party was present, he was informed that she was, and that she wished to withdraw her accusation.
However, when she was sworn in, she told the judge that her ex-partner allegedly threatened to break the windows of her home, shortly after she had given birth to their child.
The woman then alleged: "He asked me to drop the charges two months ago," and subsequently broke down on the stand.
"I am glad you are opening up about this," the judge told her: "What you have told me today about this alleged incident, it is appalling."
The woman also said that she is concerned because her ex-partner has been threatening to call Tusla and make false accusations about her being an abusive / neglectful mother, in order to take her child from her.
In response, Judge Zaidan pointed her to a domestic violence support organisation, and also appointed a female solicitor to assist her.
The judge adjourned the case to a date in November to allow time for directions from the Director of Public Prosecutions to be prepared.
He also remanded the accused on continuing bail, and said that the onus is on the defence to notify the defendant of the next court date.
If you have been affected by this article, you can find resources to help you by contacting Women's Aid at 1800 341 900 or emailing helpline@womensaid.ie, or Men's Aid by ringing 01 554 3811 or emailing hello@mensaid.ie.
Additionally, you can find resources to help you by emailing Samaritans Ireland at jo@samaritans.ie, or by ringing 116 123.