Merseyside Police case moves ahead after two charged in Liverpool attack
Merseyside Police said Annie Woods, 22, and Christy Hegarty, 23, appeared separately at Liverpool Magistrates' Court on Friday, May 1, after being charged over a bleach attack in Liverpool city centre. The case was sent to Liverpool Crown Court, where both are due to appear on May 29.
Bold Street and Newington
Officers were called to the junction of Bold Street and Newington at around 1.55pm on Wednesday, April 29, after reports of a man and a woman squirting an unknown liquid towards Craig Rowlands. Tests indicated the liquid was some form of domestic cleaning product, and Merseyside Police later said it was bleach.
Police, fire crews and paramedics attended the scene, and the area was cordoned off after the incident. Rowlands was taken to hospital for assessment and later discharged.
Liverpool Magistrates' Court
Woods, of Minto Close in Liverpool, and Hegarty, of Doulton Street in St Helens, were charged with throwing a corrosive fluid, bleach, with intent to burn, maim, disfigure, disable or do grievous bodily harm to Rowlands. No plea was entered because of the seriousness of the charge.
Prosecutor Chris Howard told the court: "This is an horrific crime that had the potential to cause serious injury. It's currently believed the victim had bleach thrown at him to his face, and it's not believed he suffered any serious injuries."
Hegarty was denied bail and remanded in custody, while Woods was bailed under a number of conditions ordered by the magistrates.
Paula Jones statement
Detective Inspector Paula Jones said after the incident: "This is believed to have been a targeted attack and enquiries are ongoing to trace the suspects, who we believe made off on foot towards Oldham Street." She also said: "I want to assure people that there is no wider risk to the public. If you were in the area or work on Bold Street, please check devices and pass on any images or footage directly to police."
The court case now moves to Liverpool Crown Court, where the charge will be dealt with after the magistrates sent it on because of its seriousness. That leaves Woods on bail conditions and Hegarty in custody while the case progresses toward the May 29 hearing.
