A Romanian man who assaulted a neighbour who threatened him with a knife during a BBQ the day before admitted to causing the injuries but denied criminal responsibility for his actions.

The fight broke out on Monday in St George's Street, St Julian's. The alleged victim, Romanian national Mircea Lucian Gheorghe, sustained fractured ribs.

Castel Popovici, 25, from St Julian's admitted to causing the injuries but defence lawyer Roberto Montalto said his client was denying criminal responsibility as he had been threatened by the same person twice before. 

Dr Montalto said his client had organised a BBQ on the roof on Sunday. At some point, Mr Gheorghe went to the roof brandishing a knife, complaining that they were being noisy. The situation quickly calmed down and Mr Gheorghe went back to his apartment. 

The following day, Mr Popovici knocked at his neighbour's door to clear the air as he never had any problems with his neighbours before. It was then that Mr Gheorghe assaulted Mr Popovici and a fight ensued, with Mr Gheorghe ending up in hospital with fractured ribs. 

Magistrate Consuelo Scerri Herrera heard Mr Popovici denying the charges brought against him. After providing a different address where he would be staying until the case is heard, the magistrate granted him bail against a personal guarantee of €10,000. She also ordered him not to leave his house for any reason, other than to go to Mater Dei Hospital. 

Police Inspector Elton Taliana prosecuted.

 

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