Man to face trial after allegedly assaulting elderly man at his home
A MAN accused of punching a 74-year-old man in the face numerous times before stealing from him will face trial in the Supreme Court.
Alice Springs
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AN ALICE Springs man accused of punching a 74-year-old man in the face numerous times before stealing from him has faced the first day of his trial in the Supreme Court.
Arthur Abbott, 34, pleaded not guilty to one count of aggravated assault.
A jury empanelled to hear the matter was discharged due to an unforeseen administrative issue and the trial was adjourned until February 22, 2021.
Before the matter was adjourned, Crown Prosecutor Simon Lapinski told the jury that on October 29, 2019, before the alleged assault, Abbott was drinking with his partner at the time – mother of two, Stephanie Wilson, 24 – who was a friend of the victim – Brian Marchant.
“Ms Wilson and the victim were known to each other, as her family lived in the same building as Mr Marchant,” Mr Lapinski said.
Mr Lapinski said Mr Marchant was home alone when he heard shouting and loud banging noises coming from the apartment next door.
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Upon request from a neighbour, Mr Marchant called the police, the court heard.
Soon after, Ms Wilson entered Mr Marchant’s apartment to ask for cigarettes.
When she went to leave, Abbott, who the court heard had previously left the building upon security’s request, appeared at Mr Marchant’s door, the court heard.
Mr Lapinski told the court that Abbott allegedly “overpowered” Ms Wilson after “forcing his way in” and yelled “I’m going to kill you”.
The court heard Ms Wilson quickly left.
Abbott then entered Mr Marchant’s apartment and allegedly punched him three times in the face and demanded beer and money, to which Mr Marchant said he had none of either, Mr Lapinski said.
The jury heard Abbott then stole a packet of tobacco and cigarette papers from the man’s table before leaving the apartment.
Mr Lapinski said police later found the paraphernalia on Abbott and arrested him.
Mr Lapinski said during the course of the trial witness evidence would be given by public housing security officers who will present body-worn footage, the victim and the audio recording of his triple-0 call, police evidence, and the accused.
Defence lawyer Danielle Cooper said it was not disputed Abbott took the tobacco pouch and papers from the dining room table from Mr Marchant’s unit.
“What’s in dispute in this trial is whether Abbott used or threatened violence against Mr Marchant when he took the tobacco and the cigarette papers,” Ms Cooper said.
Abbott has been remanded in custody.
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