ROCHESTER, Mich. – The lawyer for an 18-year-old accused of stabbing someone at Oakland University revealed what sparked the confrontation and said the stabbing was in self-defense.
Joshua Damon Edwards appeared in court on Friday, Feb. 13, and pleaded not guilty to charges of assault with intent to murder.
His lawyer stated that although Edwards and the victim did not have an “extensive previous relationship,” the stabbing stemmed from an argument over personal property taken from Edwards, and that he acted in self-defense.
Edwards’ bond was set at $1 million.
If he posts bond, he will be prohibited from returning to Oakland University and will be subject to GPS tethering and house arrest.
If convicted, Edwards could face up to life in prison.
He is scheduled to return to court for a probable cause conference on Feb. 24 at 1:15 p.m., with a preliminary exam set for March 3 at 1:15 p.m.
Background
The attack occurred on Thursday, Feb. 5, outside Van Waggoner Hall.
When officers arrived, they found an 18-year-old victim from Rochester suffering multiple stab wounds.
Police say Edwards and a second suspect fled the campus in a dark SUV.
The victim underwent surgery and is currently recovering.
Edwards was arrested on Tuesday, Feb. 10, during a traffic stop.
The second suspect remains at large.
Police describe the suspect as a man in his early 20s, standing between 5 feet 8 inches and 5 feet 10 inches tall, with chin-length dreadlocks
He was wearing a black North Face jacket, black pants, and white shoes with blue on the back at the time of the stabbing.
Police are urging anyone with information about the case to come forward.