Cork mother of four remanded in custody for role in assaults

A 26-year-old mother of four was remanded in custody until February 26 for her part in assaults causing harm to two other women, one of whom lost teeth when she was struck in the face a number of times with a hammer.

Defendant Olivia Wade was not the one wielding a hammer during the assaults on the two women, but the hammer was used by a man who was with Ms Wade at the time.

Olivia Wade, of 21 Orchard Court, Blackpool, Cork, was arraigned on the charges brought against her by Detective Sergeant Kieran O’Sullivan.

She pleaded guilty to the counts of assault causing harm to two young women neighbouring her at Orchard Court, Blackpool, Cork, on July 24, 2023.

Elaine Audley, defence barrister, said on Ms Wade’s behalf: “She said this happened in the context of alcohol abuse. She has raised a total of €2,500 compensation for the injured parties.

“I have a letter of apology from Ms Wade. She was visibly moved by the suffering she caused when she realised the extent of it. She is utterly ashamed of her conduct.”

Judge Sinéad Behan wanted to know how the accused had gathered compensation out of social welfare, when she was raising four children.

Ms Audley said the young woman had saved a small amount and that members of her family had supported her in raising most of it.

Judge Behan said at the sentencing hearing: “I am concerned about the level of interaction with probation.

“There seems to be a lack of appreciation of the gravity of the matters.I will remand her in custody until February 26.”