Pensioner admits to threatening to burn wife and pushing her

A 77-year-old pensioner residing in Ħamrun admitted to threatening to burn his wife after he did not want to speak about his brother, who is currently battling cancer.

The man was charged with causing his wife to fear that violence would be used against her, insulting and threatening her and assaulting her.

Sources who spoke to MaltaToday said the man lost his temper with his wife in the early hours of the morning after returning home from hospital.

His wife asked him how his brother was feeling, as he was fighting for his life due to cancer. It was reported that his response escalated into an argument during which he allegedly made threatening remarks, including saying that he would “burn her.”

The woman also alleged that he grabbed her by the shoulders and pushed her into the bedroom. However, she never presented a medical certificate regarding any injuries she may have suffered.

The man was arrested by officers from the Ħamrun police station and, during his statement to police, denied the accusations brought against him. Despite this, he later admitted to the charges.

In court, the man was heard saying, “I wake up in the morning and she tells me to make her tea,” and “one moment we’re fine, the next we’re not”. Following this, he was silenced and instructed to consult with his lawyer.

Following his admission, the court found the man guilty of the charges brought against him and sentenced him to 12 months’ imprisonment suspended for 24 months from today. In addition, a protection order was issued to safeguard the victim.

The prosecution was led by Inspector Christian Cauchi while legal aid lawyer Sarah Ciliberti appeared for the accused. Magistrate Caroline Farrugia Frendo presided over the case.