Youth charged with inflicting grievous injuries

Karmenu Falzon, 24 of  Rabat was arraigned in court on charges of grievous bodily harm. Inspector Jeffrey Azzopardi, explained how last Sunday at around 10:30p.m. the youth was involved in an argument at the Beer Belly Bar at Rabat. During the argument Falzon hit Richmond Tong with a barstool causing him grievous injuries. Tong was taken to hospital by ambulance were it resulted that he had suffered two gashes at the sides of his head. However, the victim was scared of being operated and refused to have his wounds stitched. In view of this the Attorney General could not give his consent for the procedures to go ahead under the charge of grievous injuries. The prosecution asked for the appointment of a medical expert to confirm if the injuries inflicted on Tong by Falzon are indeed grievous injuries. Dr Mario Scerri was appointed as court expert. The youth pleaded not guilty to the charges raised against him. Inspector Azzopardi did not object to bail however demanded that Falzon does not approach any witnesses. Dr Yana Micallef Stafrace appearing for the accused explained how Falzon, who has a clean police record, works in the construction industry. This necessitates his being outside his residence as early as 3am and returns home at 7pm. The defence lawyer argued that it is imperative that the youth continues with his job. Magistrate Francesco Depasquale granted the accused bail against a deposit of €500 and a personal guarantee of €5000. The case will continue on 9 August.