Suspended sentence for man who stabbed victim

A man who stabbed another man with a penknife following an argument regarding the family grave, was handed a two-year prison term suspended for four years.

Emanuel Salerno, 54, of Pietà, stabbed Joseph Borg, 64, in the face and throat, on 20 November 2011 at around 6.15 pm, after an argument over who was next to be buried in the family grave at Santa Maria Addolorata Cemetery. Borg survived the attack thanks to surgery.

Salerno was charged with attempted murder, grievously injuring Borg and carrying an unlicensed weapon.

In a previous hearing the victim told the court he had forgiven the accused and had no further interest in the case.

Borg claimed he was satisfied with the out-of-court settlement he received from Salerno for the injuries sustained.

The prosecution dropped the charge of attempted murder and the accused admitted to grievously injuring the elderly man.

Magistrate Neville Camilleri sentenced the accused.

Inspector Robert Vella prosecuted. Stefano Filletti appeared as parte civile.