A Roscommon man has appeared in court charged with assaulting an elderly resident at a local nursing home. Peter Keaney of 7 Hillside Close, Monksland was brought before Athlone District Court this morning in connection with the attack on a 85 year old woman at the Sonas Nursing Home on the Ballymahon Road in Athlone, Co Westmeath. The alleged serious assault happened on Monday evening when a man used a back door to gain entry to the nursing home in the Athlone area. He made his way to the woman's room and attacked her, with staff intervening after they heard the scuffle.
The woman, who is aged in her 80's, was taken to the Midlands Regional Hospital in Tullamore. Her injuries aren't life threatening but it's understood she is still receiving medical care.
The 54 year old was arrested by Gardaí at the scene and appeared before Judge Bernadette Owens in Athlone District Court in the last few hours. Mr. Keaney was charged with a Section 3 assault causing harm and was remanded in custody until the 8th of May. Defence Solicitor Mark Cooney requested a psychiatric assessment of the accused, with Gardaí set to contest any bail application.
Sonas Nursing home provided Shannonside FM with the following statement:
“The resident who was assaulted is very much in our thoughts and prayers and is now receiving excellent care and recovering well. We are continuing to provide our residents and staff with all the necessary care and supports at this very difficult time. Residents’ families are also offering their full support to the Sonas community in Athlone at this time and this is very much appreciated. This incident has been very distressing for residents and staff and we would ask for their privacy to be respected at this time.”
“Sonas Nursing Home is co-operating fully with the relevant authorities as they carry out their investigations into this incident.“
