Trial looms for ex-Geraldton taxi driver James Michael Greenup, accused of slashing passenger with a machete

A former taxi driver accused of slicing a passenger’s throat with a machete could stand trial later this year. James Michael Greenup, 51, appeared on Friday in the District Court, where the matter was set down as a priority three four-day trial for November 22. If the matter cannot go ahead then, his trial will be priority one for August 15, 2022. He pleaded not guilty in June to causing grievous bodily harm to alleged victim Charlie Collard in June. Prosecutors have alleged Mr Greenup, who moved to Geraldton late last year to work as a taxi driver, picked up 56-year-old Mr Collard and several other passengers on Marine Terrace about 1.40am on March 23. Previously, Sgt Beau Jones told Geraldton Magistrates Court the other passengers were dropped off before the two men allegedly got into an “altercation” and Mr Greenup pulled a machete from under his seat, cutting Mr Collard’s jugular vein. It is alleged Mr Greenup then forced his passenger from the vehicle and left him “bleeding profusely” on the road. Mr Collard, right, sought help at a nearby house and was rushed to Royal Perth Hospital, where he spent days fighting for his life. Sgt Jones has previously alleged Mr Greenup continued working that night and was arrested shortly after 5am. He allegedly admitted to police he drove Mr Collard and the other passengers but denied the “bladed incident”. The machete was allegedly uncovered later that day hidden under the couch in Mr Greenup’s living room. Mr Greenup’s bail was renewed on Friday.