Iowa man allegedly stabbed in back by 8-year-old niece over cigarettes

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) - Des Moines police say they will continue to investigate a stabbing despite the victim's preference no charges be filed.

According to police reports, 21-year-old Noble Griffin was in his apartment with relatives early Monday when he was allegedly stabbed by an 8-year-old girl (his niece).

Griffin reportedly told police the stabbing occurred when a guest became angry when he smoked one of her cigarettes. When the argument escalated, the woman told her daughter to get a knife. The child complied, allegedly stabbing Griffin several times in the back. Police described the wounds as severe.

Police say Griffin at first declined hospital treatment, but later went to Broadlawns Medical Center because of pain and possible infection.

Police say they have possession of a knife and the shirt Griffin was wearing during the attack. No charges have been filed.

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Information from: The Des Moines Register, http://www.desmoinesregister.com

Copyright 2010 The Associated Press.