Mustafa Claxton (left) and Charles Plaza both denied charges of assault when they appeared before the Magistrate's Court. Photo:VINO/File

Mustafa Claxton, 27, and Charles Plaza, 42, had both pleaded not guilty to charges of assault occasioning actual bodily harm when they appeared before the Magistrate’s court on February 7, 2013.

When the two men appeared before the court on September 27, 2013, Crown Counsel Leslie Ann Faulkner announced that the prosecution would now be able to proceed with the matter as disclosure had been made to attorney Stephen Daniels, who represents Claxton in the matter. She noted that the Virtual Complainant (VC) was previously ill and had to be hospitalised.

The incident reportedly stemmed from Plaza’s missing samurai sword. When it was discovered missing, Plaza allegedly struck the Virtual Complainant beneath his chin, causing an injury to his tongue, which started to bleed.

According to the allegations, the 21 year old VC was living in Free Bottom with his mother, stepfather (Charles) and Plaza along with other siblings at the time of the incident. Claxton is also reportedly still a resident of the Free Bottom area and lives in close proximity to the VC.

It was stated that Plaza went home on December 2, 2012 and met the VC on the porch; he reportedly enquired of the whereabouts of a samurai sword and the VC indicated to him that he did not know the whereabouts of the sword. The defendant then allegedly punched the VC with his fist under his chin.

The VC then reportedly left for Brewley’s Superette and was approached by Plaza and Claxton; Claxton then allegedly struck him with a piece of stick about his body. A report was subsequently made to the Police.

Claxton was given $45,000 bail while Plaza was given $50,000 bail; both with one signed surety. The men were also asked to have no form of contact with the VC. Plaza has since reportedly removed from the premises.