February 12, 2024

Two men alleged to have been involved in a massive brawl on Rarotonga in November have appeared in court and entered not guilty pleas.

Locals Aaron Junior Ngaoa William and Albert Ikiotua Lazaro, both charged with fighting in a public place, appeared in the Criminal Court at Avarua on Thursday last week.

The charges stem from a fight at Rehab on November 8, 2023, in which two stabbings were reported, multiple people including Rehab staff received injuries, and Police backup was required to get the situation under control.

There were 11 men alleged to have been involved.

Justice of the Peace Vania Kenning declared a conflict of interest while lawyer Norman George said he did not have an issue, adding he would enter not guilty pleas on behalf of both of his clients.

George said the matter would likely take a day to deal with.

The matter was adjourned to March 25.

---------------------------

A man facing 10 charges of assaulting a female has entered no pleas as his lawyer is seeking disclosure.

Christopher Tangatakino appeared before Justice of the Peace Vania Kenning in the Criminal Court on Thursday.

His lawyer Michelle Tangimama confirmed he was granted bail on December 14, 2023, on specific conditions.

His appearance on Thursday was to put in place the disclosures she was seeking before his next appearance, when her client would enter pleas.  

The matter was adjourned to February 22

----------------------------

Two women facing charges relating to an alleged assault have questions about police disclosure.  

Shayne Jacobonie Warren and Elliot Elizabeth Julia Hunt appeared together in the Criminal Court on Thursday.

Hunt is charged with common assault and threatening to kill, Warren is charged with common assault.

Lawyer Mark Short appeared on behalf of both defendants.

Short said his clients had questions around police disclosure and that he needed to clarify evidence in relation to their pleas.

He had spoken with police and they would enter pleas, but he wanted to be sure they were fully informed before they entered pleas.   

The matter was adjourned to February 23.