Bernice Cassar having knife held against throat was deemed a medium risk report

Feb 7 2023

Bernice Cassar’s domestic violence report, which alleged that her husband Roderick had held a knife to her throat, was deemed by social workers as being of ‘medium risk.’

The assessment, which was reportedly conducted by social workers, resulted in a medium risk score of 11. When pressed on this matter, police constable Melvyn Galdes said that social workers had spoken to both Bernice and Roderick before making their assessment.

When asked why police had not arrested Cassar to instead opt to charge him through court summons, Galdes said he could not reply as that was a decision made by his superior.

The detail emerged from court testimony on Monday as the compilation of evidence against Roderick continues. The accused is currently pleading not guilty to killing his wife Bernice Cassar, who wound up killed a few months after filing the report.

Should Roderick be found guilty, he faces a stricter-than-usual sentence due to the case being tried as a murder with femicidal intent, making it the first one in local history after the concept was introduced into the law last year following the murder of Paulina Dembska.

It was reported earlier during the sitting by an eyewitness that Roderick dragged Bernice out of her car like a rag doll and proceeded to beat and kill her.

It had been revealed that the final report by Cassar came just one day before she was killed.

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Death toll rises to above 4,300 after Turkey and Syria earthquake

Feb 7 2023

The death toll from the earthquakes that hit Turkey and Syria has surpassed 4,300 as strong tremors continued near the border of the two currently devastated countries.

The largest earthquake measured 7.8 on the Richter scale with disaster response teams from both countries searching for survivors and have reporting that over 5,600 buildings have been destroyed across several cities.

In the city of Kahramanmaras, Turkey, witnesses reported feeling like it was the end of the world. The death toll is expected to rise, with estimates from the World Health Organization suggesting it could reach 20,000.

The earthquake was so strong it was felt as far away as Greenland and has sparked a global response with dozens of nations pledging to provide aid.

However, the response has been slowed by freezing rain and sub-zero temperatures. Three major airports have been made inoperable, complicating aid delivery efforts.

The impact of the earthquake has been exacerbated by the ongoing conflict in Syria, which has already devastated the region. The Syrian envoy to the UN has reportedly ruled out reopening border crossings that would allow aid to reach rebel-controlled areas.

It was also revealed that Maltese civil protection workers have headed to Turkey for further disaster relief efforts.

Minister for Home Affairs, Byron Camilleri, recently showed his appreciation to the Civil Protection workers who were en route to Turkey to assist in the aftermath of a recent earthquake. In less than 12 hours after the earthquakes occurred, a team of 32 people and a dog from the Department set off on their mission.

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Maltese Civil Protection Workers Head to Turkey for Disaster Relief Efforts

Feb 6 2023

These workers are always ready to rise to the occasion, even when it puts them at risk. Their quick response to the disaster in Turkey is a testament to their commitment to helping those in need. Their presence in Turkey will not only make a positive impact on the lives of those affected by the disaster, but it will also serve to make a good name for Malta.

The Civil Protection workers are trained professionals who are equipped to handle any situation that may arise. They are able to provide essential support in the search and rescue of injured persons, ensuring that they receive the care and attention they need. The presence of the workers will bring a sense of comfort and security to the affected communities, and their actions will undoubtedly have a lasting impact.

Ian Borg, Minister for Foreign Affairs, EU Affairs & Trade, was also present to greet the Civil Protection workers and also announced that Malta will also offer financial assistance.

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Bernice Cassar ‘dragged out of car like rag doll’ reports witness

BERNICE CASSAR REPORTEDLY DRAGGED OUT OF CAR LIKE DOLL

Feb 6 2023

A shocking eyewitness account of Bernice Cassar’s murder was given in court today as the compilation of evidence against the suspect, Roderick Cassar, continued.

According to the MCAST worker, who was present at the Paola building at the time of the incident, he and a colleague were talking around 7am when they noticed a concerning situation outside.

The worker described the attacker dragging Bernice out of a car and slapping her in the face, as if trying to revive her. Despite the woman calling for help and the worker calling 112, he heard gunshots shortly after.

The aggressor then fled the scene at a high speed, leaving Bernice on the side of the road where she was later found. The eyewitness also revealed hearing cries for help and witnessing a man attempting to intervene before being sent away by Roderick.

Bernice, a mother of two, was tragically murdered by her ex-partner despite having previously reported instances of domestic violence to the police.

#MaltaDaily