An Australia man charged with the brutal murder of his wife is accused of fatally attacking her with a homemade spear just months after a protective order for domestic violence was lifted.
New South Wales police responded to a welfare concern at the couple's home at 7:50 a.m. and discovered the body of a woman believed to be Khouloud Bakour Hawatt, a mother of five. Officers arrested Talaat Hawatt, 35, an hour later, 9 News Australia reported.
He has been charged with murder and violating a restraining order, known in Australia as an Apprehended Domestic Violence Order (ADVO).
The ADVO, granted in February, prohibited Hawatt from contacting or threatening his wife. However, in August, a court lifted restrictions, allowing him to move back into the home and have contact with her.
Police Commander Sheridan Waldau described the scene as "very violent" and said officers had to force entry into the home. Hawatt was denied bail and appeared emotionless during his initial court appearance via video link.
"It keeps me awake at night, that women are not always safe," said Officer Karen Webb, emphasizing the ongoing risks to women in abusive relationships.
"It's a tragedy when things like this happen, particularly when children are involved, children with no parents now," Police Commander Waldau said.
Originally published by Latin Times.
