Man Charged in Connection with Death of Emma Bates in Cobram, Victoria

A 39-year-old man, John Torney, has been charged with various assault offenses in connection with the death of 49-year-old Emma Bates, who was found beaten in her home in Cobram, Victoria, on Tuesday. However, Torney has not been charged with murder or manslaughter, as the autopsy was unable to confirm the cause of Bates' death.

Bates, who had type 1 diabetes and used a mobility scooter, was found with injuries to her upper body and face consistent with an assault. Torney, her neighbor, was arrested and charged with intentionally causing injury, recklessly causing injury, common assault, aggravated assault of a female, and unlawful assault.

The Cocking family, of which Bates was the fourth of seven children, described her as a devoted aunt with a big heart who was always helping others, despite her own health challenges. "Emma was the crazy cat lady who loved her 17 nieces and nephews and had room in her heart for everyone," the family said.

Why this matters: Bates is the 26th woman to die in allegedly violent circumstances in Australia so far this year, highlighting the ongoing issue of violence against women in the country. Her death has been described as part of a "sickening line up of murders" that show women are not safe, even in their own homes.

Torney had previously been acquitted of murdering a toddler in Mildura in 2015 and was serving a Community Supervision Order for assault offenses committed in 2022. He had recently moved to Cobram to live with his mother and brother in a house next to Bates. The Bates family said Emma was aware of Torney's history and hated him, believing that his move had brought "Mildura's problem" to their town.

The police investigation into Bates' death is ongoing, and it may be weeks before final test results are received. Criminal defense attorney Tim Marsh suggests that the case is complicated and that investigators may have trouble proving intent, as there are numerous factors that contributed to Bates' death.

Emma Bates' family is devastated that John Torney has not been charged with murder, as they believe his alleged assault led to her death, regardless of any pre-existing medical conditions. "Emma was a caring and generous woman who helped the disadvantaged in her community, despite her own health challenges," her family said. The investigation continues, and Torney is set to appear in court on Friday.

Key Takeaways

• John Torney, 39, charged with assault in death of Emma Bates, 49
• Bates found beaten in her home, but cause of death unclear
• Torney previously acquitted of toddler's murder, had assault convictions
• Bates' family believes Torney's alleged assault led to her death
• Torney not charged with murder, investigation ongoing, court appearance Friday