The trial of a Hamilton Parish man accused of stabbing a woman and attacking a man with a knife began yesterday, with the jury hearing that the issue of mental health will play a prominent role.

Alan Robinson, 56, has denied charges of attempting to murder Vernica Tucker, causing her grievous bodily harm, assaulting Kevin Arorash and possessing a bladed weapon.

Opening the trial in the Supreme Court, prosecutor Nicole Smith said all of the charges relate to an incident on the evening of December 11, 2012, when Ms Tucker visited Mr Arorash, a friend who shared a Rocky Lane home with Mr Robinson and his brother.

Ms Smith told the court that Ms Tucker decided to catch the bus home just after 10pm and Mr Arorash decided to walk her to the main road, using his motorcycle to provide light.

However, while walking along Rocky Lane, Ms Smith said Mr Robinson jumped out of some trees and brought a knife to Mr Arorash’s throat. She said his coat jacket prevented the knife from touching the victim, but in the ensuing struggle Mr Arorash and his bike fell to the ground, where it is alleged Mr Robinson repeatedly punched him.

Mr Robinson then allegedly attacked Ms Tucker, stabbing her with the knife several times, leaving the knife lodged in her body before fleeing the scene.

Ms Smith suggested to the jury that the actions of Mr Robinson to Mr Tucker amounted to attempted murder, saying: “His conduct was such that he either attempted to kill, or at least cause Ms Tucker serious harm, and, in fact, did cause Ms Tucker serious harm.”

Addressing the potential jurors before they were sworn in, Puisne Judge Charles-Etta Simmons noted that mental health matters would be an important issue for the jury to consider in the trial.

The trial is expected to continue throughout the week.

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