Man denies causing wife to fear violence
Arrested after months on wanted list as court hears victim was at 'extreme risk'
An refrigerator technician faced court on Tuesday where he denied causing his wife to fear that violence would be used against her.
The man, a 44-year old Indian national, had been on the police wanted list for seven months but was arrested when he returned to Malta a few days ago.
The court heard how his wife had filed a report against him in September and scored 22 on the risk assessment which indicates she was in extreme danger. The couple have been married for 10 years.
The woman told police that on August 31 her husband got angry with her and allegedly shouted at her for not preparing breakfast for him and their son.
She went outside and cried. Two women passing by tried to speak to her but she does not speak English or Maltese. The woman then went to Valletta and stayed there until 5pm.
When she returned home, she asked her husband for some bread but he refused to give her any. The next day, their son asked for money to buy lunch but again the father said no.
In court, the man, who lives in St Paul’s Bay, denied the charges.
Lawyer Alex Scerri Herrera requested bail. The prosecution did not object as there have not been any further reports in the past seven months.
The man was granted bail against a €1,000 deposit and a €4,000 personal guarantee. He was ordered to sign the bail book three times a week. A curfew was also imposed. The court issued a protection order in favour of the alleged victim.
Magistrate Kevan Azzzopardi presided. Police inspector Colin Sheldon prosecuted while lawyer Alex Scerri Herrera appeared for the accused.