Newcastle West, Ireland — In a shocking incident at the Dunraven Arms Hotel, two children of well-known publican Charlie Chawke face allegations of a violent attack on two men. The altercation, which involved eye gouging, head kicking, and other aggressive actions, unfolded in the four-star establishment, a favorite among celebrities and dignitaries, including members of the British Royal Family.
Alison Chawke, 40, and her brother Bill Chawke, 30, have been formally charged and were granted bail by the Newcastle West District Court after their charges were detailed in a vivid testimony by Garda Ronan Hayes. Both siblings have been linked through evidence, including CCTV footage, to a series of violent acts during the early hours of November 9.
According to the prosecution’s depiction of events, the incident began with an argument that swiftly escalated. Inspector Barry Manton detailed how the confrontation moved from the bar to a hotel hallway, growing in intensity. Alison Chawke is accused of particularly brutal acts, including throwing a pint glass and delivering multiple kicks and a bite to one victim’s cheek.
Bill Chawke allegedly matched his sister’s aggressiveness by gouging the eyes of one victim and repeatedly striking both men, with one violent move involving slamming a victim’s head against the bar counter. The scene, captured on security cameras, paints a grim picture of the night’s events.
During the court session, neither Alison nor Bill provided a response to their charges. The severity of the allegations prompted Judge Carol Anne Coolican to decide that the case should be escalated, refusing to keep it in her jurisdiction and instead, sending it back to the Director of Public Prosecutions for further review.
Inspector Manton has requested an eight-week adjournment to assemble a comprehensive Book of Evidence against the accused. This period will also allow the prosecution to gather additional testimonies and footage that further depict the confrontation.
Meanwhile, Judge Coolican underscored the principle that both accused individuals are entitled to the presumption of innocence as the legal process unfolds. They are set to reappear in court on December 3, when the prosecution is expected to present the Book of Evidence.
This case has drawn attention due to the profile of the accused’s father, Charlie Chawke, a prominent figure in the hospitality industry. As the legal proceedings evolve, the community and patrons of the Dunraven Arms Hotel await clear answers and outcomes.