A 15-year-old boy has been charged with assaulting his mother after an argument over his wish to get a tattoo allegedly turned violent at the family home in Żabbar.

The boy pleaded not guilty to  slightly injuring his mother, insulting both his parents and causing them fear of violence. 

Prosecuting Inspector Christian Cauchi told the court that police were alerted to a domestic dispute involving the teenager and his parents at around 2am on Tuesday.

The court heard that tensions had been mounting over the boy's behaviour, including his cocaine and cannabis use and his habit of returning home late at night. The situation escalated when the teenager expressed his wish to get a tattoo, which his mother opposed.

The argument eventually turned physical, with the boy grabbing his mother and banging her head against a wall.

Police arrested the teenager at around 3am.

A representative of Child Protection Services attended court to assist the boy.

The prosecution requested a protection order in favour of both parents, with the court warning the teenager that he was not permitted to approach or contact either of them. 

The defence did not request bail since the teenager has no alternative accommodation available outside the family home.

The defence requested the court to recommend the prison director that assistance be given to the boy regarding the issues he is facing.

Inspector Christian Cauchi prosecuted. 

Legal aid lawyer Viktor Bugeja represented the teenager. 

Magistrate Nadine Sant Lia presided over the arraignment.