Man (50s) accused of attacking elderly resident in Westmeath nursing home further charged with trying to suffocate victim

Peter Keaney (55) of 7 Hillside Close, Monksland, Athlone, Co Roscommon has been in custody since appearing in court on May 1 following an incident at Sonas Nursing Home, Ballymahon Road, Athlone on Monday April 29.

The accused went into custody by consent after being charged with assault causing harm to the woman.

When the case returned before Judge Bernadette Owens today (Wednesday) at a sitting of Athlone District Court, Sgt Sandra Keane said the State would be issuing the accused with a further charge.

That stated Keaney “did suffocate (named victim) by holding a pillow against her face”, contrary to Section 3A of the Non-Fatal Offences Against the Person Act 1997.

Detective Garda Kenneth Nerney gave evidence of arrest, charge and caution. He said Keaney made no reply after caution when the charge was put to him.

Sgt Keane said directions from the DPP had consented for Keaney to be sent forward for trial on the two charges before the court.

She also added Keaney would be permitted to go forward to the Circuit Criminal Court on a signed plea should that scenario arise.

A disclosure order of all prosecution evidence in relation to the case to Keaney’s defence solicitor Mark Cooney was granted by Judge Owens.

Mr Cooney said in light of the new developments before the court, his client would be making a bail application when the case returns before the court next week.

Judge Owens remanded Keaney in custody to a sitting of Athlone District Court next Wednesday.