Miriam Davis, from Constitution Hill, St Andrew, appeared before Senior Resident Magistrate Glen Brown to answer to a charge of murder.

The court was told that on October 28, Davis and her husband had an argument, which developed into a fight. During the incident, a pair of scissors was used to stab him in the shoulder.

HISTORY OF VIOLENCE

The court was told that there was a history of domestic violence between the couple and that on the night in question, Davis was attacked when she returned home. It is alleged that her husband, who was armed with a machete, punched her in the stomach and breasts and squeezed her throat. The machete reportedly fell and Davis pulled a pair of scissors from her bag and stabbed him.

It is alleged that she did not report the matter to the police because the church she attends believes that all differences must be resolved among each other. The court was told that the incidents of domestic violence were also kept secret because of this reason. The court was also told that Davis' neighbour, who attends her church, did not want to cooperate with the police.

In addressing that matter, RM Brown said, "Those teachings allow domestic violence to thrive because the people shy away from making reports."

The court was told that a neighbour saw the injured man coming up a hill and saw him collapse by a fence. He then ran to his assistance.

Davis was granted $50,000 bail. She returns to court on January 21.