Brockton woman charged with stabbing roommate

BROCKTON, Mass. (WHDH) -- A Brockton woman appeared in court Tuesday charged with stabbing a former roommate fueled by what police say was a Facebook feud.

Authorities say 37-year-old Nichole Powell admitted to stabbing a 25-year-old woman, but says it was in self defense.

Authorities believe threatening Facebook and text messages may have fueled the fight that involved several people.

“She showed the officers the knife that she admitted to having used to defend herself in the melee,” said Dante Annicelli, prosecutor.

Authorities say the victim was staying with Powell for some time, but was asked to leave. When the victim returned to the house to retrieve her belongings, things took a turn for the worst.

The suspect’s attorney said the victim showed up at the house with a number of people ready to fight. He says his client was prepared for a problem because she had gotten a heads up.

“The Facebook postings were threatening towards her and her family. And she knew she was coming and that’s why they were prepared,” said Jonathan Moriarty, defense attorney.

The suspect has been released. It is unclear if charges will be filed against the victim.