A PLUMBER accused of stabbing another tradie on a job site at Blackalls Park after an argument over shoddy work will plead not guilty and claim he was acting in self-defence.
Gene Joseph Howard, 39, who is represented by solicitor Mark Ramsland, appeared in Newcastle Local Court on Wednesday where he was committed for trial on three charges, including wounding a person with intent to cause grievous bodily harm.
Mr Howard, who remains on bail, will next appear in Newcastle District Court next month to get a trial date.
Police say Mr Howard was working as a plumber on a construction site in Faucett Street, Blackalls Park on August 30 last year when he had an issue with work that had been completed by another plumber. Mr Howard called his 33-year-old colleague and the pair had a heated argument over the phone.
About 15 minutes later, the 33-year-old returned to the job site and began arguing with Mr Howard before Mr Howard allegedly stabbed him with a Stanley knife, causing a 30 centimetre laceration down his left arm.
The 33-year-old was treated at the scene before being taken to John Hunter Hospital for further treatment.
Mr Howard was later stopped by police driving through Boolaroo and arrested.
