Teenager accused of stabbing mother’s former boyfriend

A 19-year-old man yesterday pleaded not guilty to stabbing his mother’s former boyfriend during a fight that ensued when the victim turned up at their flat and allegedly became violent.

Liam Camilleri, who needed crutches to walk, stood in the dock beside his 49-year-old mother, Judith, and his 25-year-old brother, Dean, who were also charged over the incident that occurred on Wednesday evening in Pembroke.

The incident occurred when Emanuel Schembri went to Ms Camilleri’s house demanding an explanation from her as to why she had dumped him and was dating another man, sources said. A heated argument followed the boys allegedly tried to defend their mother. Mr Schembri suffered stab wounds in the chest and in the back, the deepest wound puncturing his lung.

Mr Schembri was rushed to hospital after he was found in a pool of blood in the street. He was first placed in intensive care but his condition eventually stabilised.

Ms Camilleri and her son Dean pleaded guilty to damaging Mr Schembri’s car, harassing him and breaching the peace.

Magistrate Doreen Clarke handed down a five-month jail term suspended for 18 in the case of Ms Camilleri. Dean was conditionally discharged for 18 months.

Liam Camilleri did not request bail. The case continues.

Lawyers Andy Ellul and Vince Micallef appeared for Liam Camilleri.

Lawyers Anġlu Farrugia and Tonio Azzopardi appeared for Ms Camilleri and Dean.