Teen granted bail after stabbing stepfather

A 16-year-old boy was granted bail on Monday after pleading not guilty to charges of injuring his stepfather and mother during an incident in Mosta.

The teenager was arraigned over an incident on 10 October, during which he allegedly stabbed his stepfather and slightly injuring his mother

He was charged with causing slight injuries to both, causing them to fear that violence would be used against them, assaulting them and making threats and insults. 

Prosecuting Inspector Omar Zammit told the court that the teenager had allegedly stabbed his stepfather in the back. He also confirmed that the accused had cooperated extensively with police during the investigation.

The minor was accompanied in court by a child protection officer.

The defence requested bail. The prosecution did not object. The inspector explained that the teenager's parents did not want him imprisoned or subjected to a protection order, provided that he resided elsewhere.

The boy’s lawyer submitted that his grandparents were willing to accommodate him. His sister, who is also currently living with their grandparents, presented a video in which they confirmed their willingness to take him into their home.

A request was also made for a treatment order to address the teenager’s anger management difficulties.

Magistrate Nadine Sant Lia granted bail against a €800 deposit and a personal guarantee of €2,000. The boy must reside with his grandparents, sign the bail book once a week and observe a curfew between 9pm and 6am.

The court additionally issued a temporary supervision order aimed at addressing the teenager's anger issues. 

The court also imposed a publication ban on the identities of those involved in the case.

Inspector Omar Zammit prosecuted while legal aid lawyer Rachel Tua represented the accused. Magistrate Nadine Sant Lia presided over the case.