On Thursday, July 27, Justice of the Peace Georgina Williams heard eight cases on the Criminal List.

The first case was a matter of careless driving causing injury. Lawyer Mark Short appeared for the defendant Christine Kaiata John. Short advised the court that John was not present in court as she now lives overseas. He explained the charge resulted from a car accident the defendant had, involving a friend. His client has made full reparation for her friend’s costs and resolution had been achieved. Short asked that the charges be withdrawn which was agreed by the police prosecutor. JP Williams noted that the defendant was excused for not appearing, adding it was an unfortunate accident and that reparation had been paid, and recorded the charges withdrawn.

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

The next defendant called was Jale O’Connor charged with indecent assault. He did not appear however his lawyer Lavi Rokoika apologised, stating she had been waiting since May for disclosures from the police. On agreement the matter was adjourned to the High Court for August 31, 2023.

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

Polycarp Jay-Z Tarai appeared next on two charges of joint burglary. Tarai was also represented by lawyer Lavi Rokoika who advised the court that she had received disclosures from the police but needed time to go over them. With the consent of the prosecution, JP Williams adjourned the matters to August 31, with continuing bail conditions.

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

The matter against a man charged with assault on female was also called on Thursday. The police prosecutor advised the court, the defendant was not present in court and handed over a medical certificate asking for an adjournment to August 31, 2023. The adjournment was granted.

------

Maiarii Kauvai appeared next represented by lawyer Mark Short on a charge of contempt of court. The court was told this was her sixth breach of curfew. Both the defence and prosecution agreed for adjournment to August 23, 2023 for sentencing. JP Williams warned the defendant she was liable for jail if she continued to offend and granted the adjournment.

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

An adjournment was also granted to Edward Tonorio who appeared on a charge of burglary. He was not represented and told the court that he had changed his lawyer and was waiting now to see lawyer Mona Ioane. The court adjourned the matter to August 10 advising Tonorio that he was still on bail and to comply with its conditions.

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

The final matter for the morning was a case of excess breath alcohol. The defendant Fale Sooialo appeared without representation. He told the court that he understood the charge and wanted to take a lawyer. The prosecutor had no objection to this, and the court agreed for hearing on August 31, 2023.

• Rod Henderson