Court: Possible diversion

Crown Law has suggested a diversion could be confirmed by April 30 for Alberio Lazaro and Aaron Junior William, who are currently facing charges of fighting in a public place.

Lazaro and William appeared before Justice of the Peace John Whitta at the Criminal Court in Avarua yesterday. Crown Law counsel Aleyna-Joy Taripo requested a two-week adjournment to complete the diversion process.

Lazaro and William were allegedly part of an 11-man group involved in a massive brawl outside the Rehab Night Club on November 8, 2023.

Crown Law's indication of a diversion was welcomed by the men and their lawyer, Norman George.  George said the men were victims of the assault and considered the diversion an absolute blessing.

He explained that since the alleged incident, his clients have been unable to socialise freely and requested modifications to their bail conditions, specifically the restrictions on entering liquor-licensed premises and consuming alcohol. He argued for permission to enter nightclubs.

JP Whitta amended the bail conditions but retained the requirement for their passports to remain with the court and a restriction on leaving the country. He adjourned the matter to allow the diversion process to proceed.