Woman found in cave declared unfit to testify against estranged husband

A psychiatrist has declared that Natalie Williams, the woman found in a cave in Ricasoli last October, is currently unfit to testify against her estranged husband due to severe anxiety.

The psychiatrist’s declaration was made via an affidavit presented through the woman’s lawyer before Magistrate Claire Stafrace Zammit. Roddy Swinton Williams, 37, is accused of placing William’s life in manifest jeopardy, sexual assault, holding her against her will, harassing her and causing her to fear that violence would be used against her.

Roddy Swinton Williams was born in the Seychelles and was residing in Fgura.

He was also charged with being in possession of heroin, slightly injuring his wife and threatening a policeman.

Natalie Williams was found in a cave without food or water days after she had been reported missing. The 46-yearold was due to testify against Swinton Williams last week, but a doctor said she was unfit to do so. Stafrace Zammit did not recognise the general practitioner’s note and requested that a psychiatrist evaluate William’s mental state.

Last November, the court heard how she remained in the cave out of fear, not knowing what her estranged husband would do to her had she escaped.

It has been alleged that the estranged husband pushed his wife down a flight of stairs, into the sea, forced her to get to the cave and kept her in the dark. It was also claimed that he raped his estranged wife twice throughout the threedays she remained in the cave.

Stafrace Zammit ordered the next hearing to take place on Thursday so that the psychiatrist may testify in person and explain what led to the recommendation.