Courts / Dublin / Report
Couple repeatedly stabbed widower (79) and visually impaired man during robberies
Summary
An 84‑year‑old widower was attacked by a couple who robbed him for drug money. The pair, who had 104 prior convictions, stabbed the widower with a clawhammer and a kitchen knife, causing severe injuries and financial loss. The widower, aged 79, survived and described the ordeal as a test of faith. The attackers, Christine Ward (36) and Derek Bewley (48), had previously robbed a visually impaired man on the same day, stealing his wallet, iPhone and car. Ward initially denied involvement but was later identified in CCTV footage. Bewley had 79 prior convictions, Ward 25. The court heard the widower's injuries, PTSD, and the financial impact of the robbery. Ward will be finalized on 29 January, Bewley on 1 February. Christine Ward pleaded guilty. Derek Bewley pleaded guilty.
Who, what, where, when and why
What: Report matter: Couple repeatedly stabbed widower (79) and visually impaired man during robberies. Charges or matters: aggravated burglary at a house in Artane on November 2, 2018, with seven other counts taken into consideration; possession of a hammer and stealing a wallet containing €600 during the same incident. Procedural stage: sentence
When:
- November 2, 2018 Incident
- January 29 Adjournment
- February 1 Adjournment
- 2023-12-13 Publication
Why: Because he had no car, the victim had to walk from Artane to Coolock village to summon help from his son. CNI source report
Case subjects
Defendant
Charges: aggravated burglary at a house in Artane on November 2, 2018, with seven other counts taken into consideration; possession of a hammer and stealing a wallet containing €600 during the same incident (Admitted)
Plea: Guilty
Outcome: Judge Crowe adjourned Ward for finalisation on January 29 next, while Bewley will be sentenced on February 1 next.; Judge Crowe adjourned Ward for finalisation on January 29 next, while Bewley will be sentenced on February 1 next.
Defendant
Charges: aggravated burglary at a house in Artane on November 2, 2018, with seven other counts taken into consideration; possession of a hammer and stealing a wallet containing €600 during the same incident (Admitted)
Plea: Guilty
Outcome: Judge Crowe adjourned Ward for finalisation on January 29 next, while Bewley will be sentenced on February 1 next.; Judge Crowe adjourned Ward for finalisation on January 29 next, while Bewley will be sentenced on February 1 next.
Places mentioned
- Dublin
- Dublin Circuit Criminal Court
- Little Britain Street
- Dublin
- North William Street
- Beaumont Hospital
- Mater Hospital
- Dublin's North William Street
Topics
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