Christmas Eve attack was attempted murder, court hears (From Wilts and Gloucestershire Standard)

Cirencester man Lee Farrell to be charged with attempted murder after alleged Christmas Eve domestic

1:45pm Saturday 19th January 2013 in News

A CIRENCESTER man is to be charged with the attempted murder of a woman on Christmas Eve.

Lee Farrell of Apsley Road had been accused of wounding Stacey White with intent to cause her grievous bodily harm by stabbing her.

But prosecutor Rachel Scott told the court the Crown now wishes to prefer a more serious charge of attempted murder against 29-year-old Farrell.

"Evidence has come to light that it is clear the defendant intended to kill the victim," she said.

Farrell appeared before the court via video link from Bristol Prison, where he is being held on remand.

Judge Jamie Tabor QC explained to him "The prosecution say they are going to charge you with attempted murder as an alternative to wounding with intent. You will be brought to this court on 12th April for a plea and case management hearing."

Farrell was remanded in custody till then.

Ms White, who is in her twenties, was stabbed in the abdomen, thigh and arm at a house in Apsley Road on Dec 24. Farrell's alleged attack is said to have occurred during a 'domestic row.'