There were a multitude of guilty pleas in the Criminal Court at Avarua yesterday.  

Starting with John Toeta who appeared on a charge of drunkenness in a public place and two charges of wilful damage, his defence lawyer Norman George entered a guilty plea on his behalf and asked for a probation report.

“He claims to have been in a state of confusion,” George said of his client.

“He can’t recall what happened.”

George asked for a psychiatric “background” report which police agreed on.

Justice of the Peace Georgina Williams adjourned the matter to March 28. 

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Puretu A Tangiau Tamakeu Jescique Enoka entered a guilty plea to common assault.

The matter was adjourned to March 1.

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Taniela Qaloiwasa entered guilty pleas to excess breath alcohol and dangerous reckless driving.

Defence lawyer Mark Short asked for a probation report and sentencing was set down for April 4.

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Tereapii Urlich entered a guilty plea to careless driving.

Defence lawyer Mark Short asked for a probation report.

“The defendant has worked closely with police and is working with the victim for reconciliations.”

A probation report was requested and the matter adjourned to April 4.

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Elena Mataora entered a guilty plea to careless driving/excess blood alcohol charges.    

Defence lawyer Mark Short asked for a probation report and date for sentencing was set on April 11.

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Constance Arteinga Petisa Napa was told her third drink driving conviction could mean imprisonment.

She was already disqualified from driving when she was charged with drink driving.

“The third EBA means imprisonment,” JP Williams said. 

Defence lawyer Mark Short said he had been instructed to enter a guilty plea.

A probation report was requested and a sentencing date of April 11 was set.      

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Amani John Tupeariki Ama was granted diversion on a charge of careless driving causing injury.

Police said the defendant had met all the requirements for the diversion scheme.