Crime
Psychiatric assessment ordered for mother accused of murdering son, 6
KAROLINA ZURAWSKA, the 41-year-old mother accused of murdering her six-year-old son, Alexander Zurawski, appeared in Swansea Crown Court this morning (Sept 3).
Zurawska was arrested on Thursday (Aug 29), following an incident at her home on Cwm Du Close in Gendros, Swansea.
The alleged incident also involved the attempted murder of a 67-year-old man, whose identity has not been disclosed.
South Wales Police have confirmed that they are not seeking any other suspects in connection with this case.
During a brief initial hearing at Swansea Magistrates’ Court on Monday, Ms Zurawska did not enter a plea. She only spoke to confirm her name, address, and date of birth.
Subsequently, she was remanded in custody and made her first appearance at Swansea Crown Court today.
She made no plea today, but confirmed her name and address for the court.
Zurawska’s defence team sought a psychiatric assessment, something which the judge agreed was a sensible idea.
A series of key dates for administrative court hearings leading up to a potential trial have been set:
- Stage One: 25th October 2024
- Stage Two: 22nd November 2024 (for any reports and defence statements)
- Stage Three: 29th November 2024
- Stage Four: 12th December 2024 (for further trial preparation)
Chief Superintendent Chris Truscott, divisional commander for Swansea and Neath Port Talbot, described the event as “a distressing incident” that has sent “a tremendous shock” through the local community. In the wake of this tragedy, the family of young Alexander Zurawski paid tribute to him, describing him as a “very kind child” who was “always well-behaved” and “never naughty.” They also highlighted his intelligence, noting that he was “very clever and mature for his age,” with a “great understanding of facts,” and that he was fluent in both English and Polish
The court determined that if a trial is deemed necessary, it is scheduled to begin on February 17.
DYFED-POWYS Police is investigating a domestic burglary which occurred at an address in Precelly Place, Milford Haven, on Wednesday (Apr 23).
Officers hand-delivered letters to residents in the area on Thursday (Apr 24), appealing for information that may assist with the investigation.
No arrests have been made at this stage and enquiries are ongoing.
A MAN from St Davids is facing serious allegations of domestic abuse, including physical assault and coercive control, spanning more than two years.
Ryan Bowen, aged 44, of Nun Street, appeared in court accused of controlling and abusive behaviour towards his partner between August 2019 and January 2022.
Bowen is alleged to have physically assaulted the woman by slamming a car door on her leg, punching her in the ribs, and pushing her. The court also heard he verbally abused her, belittled her as a mother, and threatened to kill her.
It is further alleged he controlled her finances, dictated what she wore, where she could sleep, and where she was allowed to work.
Prosecutors also claimed he threatened to take her children away and told her he would kill himself if she ever left him.
Bowen has denied the charges.
Judge Paul Thomas KC asked defence barrister Dyfed Thomas whether his client would consider pleading guilty to any lesser charges. Mr Thomas responded that Bowen was “adamant” the allegations were untrue and would not be changing his plea.
A trial has been listed for December 9. Bowen was granted bail until that date.
POLICE are investigating the theft of a motorbike from the A470 near Storey Arms, close to Brecon.
The Lexmoto LXR, described as blue and silver in colour, was awaiting recovery when it was stolen sometime between 9:00pm on Tuesday (Apr 8) and 11:00am on Wednesday (Apr 9).
Officers are appealing to anyone who was travelling along the A470 during that time and may have seen anything suspicious.
Dash cam footage could be especially helpful to the investigation.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Dyfed-Powys Police via:
| Online form
| 101@dyfed-powys.police.uk
| 101
Quote reference: 25*307219
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