Haverhill murder trial: Boy's 'mental condition affects thinking'
Family via Suffolk policeA teenager who killed another boy has a "mental condition" that affects his thinking and behaviour, a court heard.
Harley Barfield, 16, was stabbed in the heart in a car park in Haverhill, Suffolk, on 9 January and died two days later in hospital.
Another boy, 16, who cannot be named due to his age, is on trial at Ipswich Crown Court charged with murder.
Barrister Stephen Rose KC said the defendant had autistic spectrum disorder.
Prosecutors have said the accused teenager killed the victim in a "frenzied" attack because he thought Harley was preventing him from reuniting with his ex-girlfriend.
Mr Rose said on Thursday that his client did stab the victim using a knife from his own kitchen and did flee the scene.
But he denied the defendant was lying in wait for Harley and that he was actually "surprised" to see him that day.
Mr Rose said he would argue that his "mental condition" affected his thinking and behaviour in "a way that ultimately should reduce his level of responsibility" for the killing.
Harley received stab wounds to his chest and cuts to his neck, head and hands.
The defendant denies the murder charge. The trial continues.
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