Wicklow, Ireland – A pensioner in Wicklow was sentenced to 10 months in prison for a violent assault on his 97-year-old wife last year, using an object believed to have been his walking stick. The incident occurred at their home near Ashford, Co Wicklow, on May 6, 2023.
During a sitting at Wicklow Circuit Criminal Court, it was revealed that the accused, Tom Harte, had earlier pushed his wife down a six-foot drop into a ditch while she was working in the garden, cutting briars. The victim shared with authorities that it took her over an hour to free herself from the overgrown area, receiving no help from her husband. She recounted being struck on the head multiple times by what she thought was his walking stick.
In an unexpected turn of events, Harte, a 79-year-old retired recycling plant employee, pleaded guilty to the charge of assault causing harm to his wife. This act, described by Judge Terence O’Sullivan as “bizarre,” was out of character as the couple had no history of domestic violence and Harte had no prior convictions.
The court also heard that following the assault, Harte allegedly feigned a seizure when authorities were called to the house. Despite attempts to explain his actions, discrepancies in his account of the events raised suspicions regarding his involvement in the assault on his wife.
After suffering severe injuries and enduring challenging circumstances, the resilient victim, now 98 years old, moved to a new location within Wicklow but continued to live independently. The court acknowledged her strength and determination in overcoming the harrowing ordeal, emphasizing her ability to persevere despite the circumstances.
As the case unfolded, details emerged of a controlling dynamic in the couple’s relationship, where financial matters were a point of contention. The accused’s actions were deemed as “vicious” by Judge O’Sullivan, considering the victim’s vulnerability and the fact that the assault took place in their family home. Despite claims of memory lapses and medical issues, Harte was held accountable for his actions and sentenced to 10 months in prison.
Upon sentencing, the judge imposed conditions on Harte’s release, forbidding any contact with his wife without her consent for a period of 10 years. Despite being granted bail to finalize his affairs, Harte was set to begin his prison term the following week.