Gozitan truck driver charged with running over police constable

A 54-year-old man from Kercem, Gozo, was this morning granted bail after pleading not guilty to running over and injuring police constable Savio Vassallo at the end of Kercem village feast last Sunday.

The incident occurred last Sunday, when the accused, Gregory Stellini, allegedly tried to pass through a closed road when the police constable stopped him. An argument then ensued and the policeman issued him with a ticket for his contravention.

Incensed by the fine, the Kercem man then got into his truck and ran the police constable over.

Standing before the Gozo court this morning, prosecuting inspector Bernard Spiteri told the court that the accused had intentionally driven over the policeman.

Stellini was also charged with driving negligently, of injuring the police constable, and of disobeying police orders.

He pleaded not guilty to the charges.

Magistrate Joanne Vella Cuschieri granted the accused bail against a personal guarantee of €3,000. He was also ordered to sign a bail sheet at the Rabat police station.

Lawyer Deborah Mercieca represented the accused, while Inspector Bernard Spiteri prosecuted.