Deceased woman's husband accused of domestic violence

A day after she was found dead next to her bed at her home in Marsa, Maria Dolores Pace's husband, Joseph, was charged with domestic violence.

Mrs Pace was discovered by police at her residence in Triq Is-Sajjied, Marsa, after neighbours had heard the couple arguing some time before. In court, the police said the couple were "well-known" to the police for their rowdy arguments.

An autopsy carried out yesterday morning revealed that the woman, who had blood on her face, died of a heart attack.

Mr Pace was accused of threatening his wife, slightly injuring her, harassing her and insulting her. Mr Pace, who said he was registering for unemployment benefit, denied the charges against him.

Magistrate Doreen Clarke, who presided over the sitting, denied the man bail and he was remanded in custody. However, she granted him permission to attend his wife's funeral.

Inspectors Joseph Agius and Ramon Mercieca prosecuted. Anthony Cutajar appeared for Mr Pace.