Man who stabbed Harold Hill housemate in washing up argument fails to attend sentencing

Colin was stabbed by his housemate (Image: Archant)

Victim Colin Payne, 41, said he was left “pumping” out with blood after he was stabbed in the torso during the dispute over whose dirty plates were left in the sink at their home in Kingsbridge Close, Harold Hill, on December 2 last year.

The defendant’s mother had flown in from America to support her son as he was sentenced for unlawful wounding.

Da Costa, 44, was due in Snaresbrook Crown Court, for the attack that left the victim having to struggle out to the road to hail down a passing car for assistance.

Defence lawyer Achilleas Achillea said Da Costa’s disappearance was “out of character”.

The defendant was under curfew to stay at his sisters in Ruthven Avenue, Waltham Cross, but did not return home after leaving on Monday, Mr Achillea said.

His concerned sister called his mobile and got through to a man claiming to have his phone but would not give his identity only revealed that he lived in Hackney, the court heard.

Mr Achillea said: “His family are very concerned about what has happened to him.

“His sister has done everything she can.”

Judge Ian Darling said as he issued his warrant for arrest: “With some regret he is absent without any meaningful explanation.”

He added that Da Costa had been punctual to every other court hearing and had previously complied with his bail conditions.

“I say this for the benefit of his family, whatever lies behind his failure to attend I hope he is found soon,” he continued.

“It is rather out of context of this case and rather out of character.”

Mr Payne, 41, who still lives at the home he shared with the defendant, was visibly distressed that the defendant was not there to be sentenced.

Update: Da Costa has since arrived at court and a hearing is expected this afternoon. Report to follow...

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