Rodney Cole denies assaulting father in Upper Hale dispute

Rodney Cole, 45, has pleaded not guilty to assault occasioning actual bodily harm against his father, Paul Cole, at Guildford Magistrates' Court. The charges stem from an alleged incident in Upper Hale on December 8 last year.

Prosecutors allege the dispute began when Rodney Cole discovered a broken electric scooter charger in his father's shed. The prosecution claims Rodney accused his father and brother of breaking the device and subsequently assaulted Paul Cole by pushing him into a shed corner, fracturing two ribs, and punching and kicking him.

The defense has indicated that the allegations will be disputed. Rodney Cole was granted bail on the condition that he does not contact his father or visit his home. The case has been adjourned for a plea and trial preparation hearing at Guildford Crown Court on November 16.