Accused made threats to love rival, court told
A man accused of attempting to kill his love rival told a barmaid "they better watch out" before a brutal attack that left the victim with serious injuries, a court heard.
Kevin Pallatina is accused of attacking Richard Crane in the early hours of February 19, 2010, in a road close to Brownhills High Street. Jurors at Shrewsbury Crown Court have heard this week that Mr Crane, known as Digger, was left for dead in the snow after an attack and had cuts to his face and head, heavy bruising and a smashed eye socket.
Pallatina, 45, of Ogley Road, Brownhills, denies attempted murder and wounding with intent.
The court heard from Sarah Marshall, 27, who worked as a part-time barmaid at The Anchor in Brownhills in February 2010. She said the defendant, his former girlfriend Lorraine Maskell and Mr Crane were regulars there.
Mrs Marshall said she saw the defendant talk to Miss Maskell "about some order and some texts".
Later, as she stood with colleagues in the pub's smoking area, the defendant spoke to her, telling her "he was going to kill him".
She told the court he said "they better watch out them pair" and she presumed he was talking about Miss Maskell and Mr Crane.
The court heard the defendant had split up with Miss Maskell after a relationship from December 2009 until February 2010.
The court heard Pallatina said in a police interview he was upset about the break-up.
The trial continues.
