Sharon Bennett accused in court

A man charged in connection with an assault on Wexford woman Sharon Bennett who died almost two weeks after the alleged attack, made his first appearance in court since her tragic death.

Ms. Bennett (29), originally from Duncormick, died in hospital on February 10, 13 days after being the victim of an alleged assault by Patrick Ballard (34) in the Market area of Ennis on Thursday, January 28.

Ballard of Ashford Court Hotel, Ennis, is currently on remand at Limerick prison having been charged with assault causing harm to Ms Bennett, who was the mother of two young daughters, aged nine and six.

The defendant appeared at Ennis District Court last week via video link from Limerick prison.

Sergeant Aiden Lonergan told Judge Patrick Durcan that the case was last before the court on February 2, relating to an allegation of assault causing harm.

He told the court that Ms. Bennett had died since the defendant’s previous court appearance and a file was now being prepared for the Director of Public Prosecutions in relation to the appropriate charge.

Judge Durcan asked: Is it the view of the State that this is a very serious matter?

In response, Sergeant Lonergan said: ‘Yes judge, of the highest.’

Judge Durcan then asked: ‘s it the position of the State that Ms Bennett died as a result of injuries received in the alleged assault?’

In reply, Sergeant Lonergan said: ‘That is what is under investigation.’

Defence solicitor Tara Godfrey said her client understood that the file going to the DPP would take some time given that certain reports that had to be finalised.

Sergeant Longergan applied for an adjournment to March 24 to have DPP directions available.

Judge Durcan further remanded the accused in custody to appear via video link at Ennis District Court on March 24.