Banker Accused of Beating Hotel Worker to Death Says He Acted in Self-Defense and Would Do It Again

A Connecticut banker accused of beating to death an Anguilla hotel worker faces an angry community in the British territory where he will now stand trial.

Scott Hapgood was on vacation with his wife and three children when he said Kenny Mitchel, 27, came to the door of his family's luxury Malliouhana resort. According to Hapgood, Mitchel brandished a knife and attacked him.

"All that I did was defend my young daughters in front of an attacker that was crazed and desperate," Hapgood told reporters, saying he acted in self-defense. "I have to just hold onto that fact. I would do it again, and thank God I was in that room when he came."

Mitchel died from asphyxia and blunt force trauma, authorities said. He had cocaine and marijuana in his system, according to toxicology results.

Hapgood is charged with manslaughter. He was previously granted bail and allowed to return home.

He arrived in Anguilla on Monday for a court appearance.

Tensions are high on the island, which has a population of 15,000. Police have said they can't guarantee Hapgood's safety because of anger from local supporters of Mitchel, who leaves behind a 2-year-old daughter.

Hapgood has been placed on leave from his banking position until the trial is finished.

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