Man accused of rape told to get lawyer

By Deidre Tautua-Fanene 18 September 2018, 12:00AM

A man who is charged with rape was told to apply for legal aid by Chief Justice, His Honour Patu Tiava’asue Falefatu Sapolu.

Andrew Apulu Pulu appeared in the Supreme Court yesterday without a lawyer. When Chief Justice Patu asked the defendant if he wanted a lawyer the defendant replied no.

However, given the seriousness of the crime, Chief Justice Patu told the defendant that he needed to get a lawyer.

According to prosecution Leone Su’a Mailo, Apulu faces charges of sexual violation and causing injury.

“The Court sees the charge you are facing is very serious,” Chief Justice Patu told the defendant.

“The maximum penalty for rape is life imprisonment and I can also see you are a youth and only 20 years old.

“Therefore, the Court will order the registrar to find a lawyer that will represent you in this matter and that lawyer will be paid for by the Government.”

The matter was adjourned to 1 October 2018.

By Deidre Tautua-Fanene 18 September 2018, 12:00AM
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