COEUR d'ALENE - A transient accused of stabbing a man at a homeless encampment this summer pleaded not guilty on Friday during his arraignment in 1st District Court.

James H. Kountz, 56, is charged with aggravated battery for allegedly stabbing 42-year-old homeless man James R. Hoglen in a wooded area behind the Target retail store in north Coeur d'Alene.

The stabbing occurred in June, and left Hoglen with four serious wounds to his abdomen.

Kootenai County Deputy Prosecutor Art Verharen said in court he anticipated a three-day trial. Judge Ben Simpson hasn't set a date.

Kountz is being held at Kootenai County jail on $250,000 bond.

He is facing a significant sentence, if convicted, as he has multiple prior criminal convictions. Also, the aggravated battery in the current case includes a deadly weapon sentencing enhancement.

Hoglen has told authorities he was stabbed by Kountz after Hoglen got into a confrontation with a third man at the campsite over some beer and vodka.

Hoglen staggered wounded from the encampment to U.S. 95, which runs on the west side of the wooded area, where he got help. He spent six days in the hospital.