A woman was reportedly attacked by her ex-partner wearing a Halloween-style bunny mask and brandishing a meat cleaver at her doorstep, as per court proceedings. Jamie French, 31, faced charges of assault causing harm and criminal damage related to the incident that occurred on August 12. He was denied bail and remanded in custody to appear in Cloverhill District Court in Dublin.
During the hearing at Dublin District Court, Garda Brian Law objected to bail, highlighting the severity of the case. Allegations suggested that French forcibly entered the victim’s residence, threatened her with violence, and physically assaulted her. The victim, in her twenties, lodged a formal complaint accusing French of prior assaults as well.
Reportedly, the victim described how French damaged her property, including her mobile phone, and physically assaulted her by pinning her down and making threats on her life. She recounted terrifying moments where French, in a fit of rage, wielded the meat cleaver in close proximity to her neck while she pleaded for mercy.
The court heard disturbing details of the incident, including the victim’s plea for mercy, which went unheeded as French continued his aggressive behavior. The victim sustained injuries, including a black eye and bruising, as a result of the attack. Law enforcement recovered the mask and cleaver allegedly used in the assault, underscoring the violent nature of the incident.
Despite defense claims of hearsay evidence, the judge ruled in favor of denying bail, citing the necessity to prioritize the victim’s safety. French, who remained silent during the court proceedings, is yet to enter a plea. Further directives from the Director of Public Prosecutions are awaited to proceed with the case.