Man defends attack on 99-year-old woman

A man charged with attacking a 99-year-old woman in her Palmerston North home is to defend the charges.

Glen Patrick Joseph Walsh, 20, was called in Palmerston North District Court yesterday on charges of injuring with intent to injure and indecent assault in relation to an alleged Rangiora Ave home invasion on November 13 last year.

Walsh was excused from appearing in person, but his next hearing was set down for September 28.

The victim, Thelma Lawrence, remained in Palmerston North Hospital until she died in March, aged 100.

At a depositions hearing in February neighbours of Ms Lawrence told how they were awoken by her screams.

Rebekah Davenport said she was woken by "horrific" high pitched screaming coming from the woman's house.

"The voice was screaming what sounded like the words, 'Save me'."

Her partner Richard Hackshaw said he was terrified by the woman's screams, which were most intense when it sounded like she was being punched.

- NZPA