Aaron Stafford denies affray and axe threat in Compton

A MAN is to stand trial accused of threatening someone with an axe and damaging a village hall.

Aaron Stafford appeared in the dock at Reading Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, January 2.

Specifically, the 19-year-old, of Gordon Crescent, Compton, is accused of threatening Luca Allen with an axe in such a way that there was an immediate risk of serious harm to them.

In addition, Mr Stafford is charged with causing damage to the door at Compton Village Hall.

Finally, he is accused of committing affray by threatening unlawful violence in such a way as to make someone fear for their safety.

All the offences were said to have been committed in Compton on April 15, 2022.

Mr Stafford, who was legally represented at the hearing by Jason Boyd, spoke only to confirm his details and to plead not guilty to each charge.

He was told the case could proceed no further that day and that it would be sent to Reading Crown Court to be dealt with by a judge and jury on a date to be fixed.

Mr Stafford was meanwhile released on bail with conditions.