Charges laid against 69-year-old man who allegedly attacked Moncton nurse

Charges were laid against a 69-year-old man accused of attacking a nurse at theDr.-Georges-L-Dumont University Hospital Centre in March.

Randy Van Horlickwas chargedat the Moncton Provincial Courthouse on Tuesdaymorning.

Van Horlick is facing one count of assault causing bodily harm, which carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prisonor 18 months on a summary conviction.

The alleged attack happened in the nurse's office behind closed doors before security arrived on March 11. The attack allegedly went on forabout 11 minutes, leaving the nurse witha brain contusionand abroken nose.

Van Horlick, who is the husband of one of the patients at the hospital, was present in court this morningbut did not enter a plea. Instead, the accused indicated he wished toapply for legal aid.

• Man arrested after alleged attack leaves Moncton nurse with head trauma, broken nose

Van Horlick is from Acadieville, a village about 100 kilometres north of Moncton. He will be back in court on July 16 at 9:30 a.m.

Dozens of nurses and supporters marched to the courthouse Tuesdayto denounce workplace violence.

Nurses gather in solidarity outside Moncton courthouse

5 years ago

Duration 0:58

Norma Melanson, mother of the nurse who was allegedly attacked at the Dr.-Georges-L-Dumont University Hospital Centre in March, said the presence of colleagues marching to denounce workplace violence is a "great support."

The nurse and her mother were in court, as were many supporters.The courtroom wasfull, with many people standing.

Van Horlick was given a court order not to have any contact with the nurse, Natasha Poirier, or go near the Dr.-Georges-L-Dumont Hospital.