WebsiteA nun accused of assaulting a 91-year-old woman has had her trial postponed after a key witness went on holiday.
Sheela George, 50, allegedly attacked Mary-Theresa O’Brien at Little Sisters of the Poor in Glasgow’s Robroyston on April 21, 2021.
Court papers state that George struck Ms O’Brien on her body.
On Wednesday, George appeared in the dock at Glasgow Sheriff Court where she pled not guilty to the single charge.
Prosecutor Lauren Sangray told the court that the Crown were unable to begin the trial due to a witness difficulty.
She said: “The witness Shona Nicolson is essential and is not in attendance.
“She had a pre-booked holiday and is out the country.
“She contacted our offices and told us this in advance of the trial.
“She was under the impression she was countermanded but we do not have anything which says that.
“The Crown rely on this witness and we are not in a position to part hear the trial.”
Tom Watters, defending, told the court that it was “very unfortunate.”
He added: “The sister relocated to London because of the situation and will return [for the new trial].
“She travelled up yesterday and I met with her which at that point it became apparent the trial would not take place.”
Sheriff Gerard Considine set a new trial for August and continued George’s bail in the meantime.
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