Pathologist report into vaccine babies' deaths served last year

By Lanuola Tusani Tupufia - Ah Tong 02 April 2019, 12:00AM

A pathologist report into the death of two babies that died after being administered the mumps, measles and rubella (MMR) vaccine has already been served to the defense counsel. 

The medical report in question was sought by lawyer Tauiliili Harry Schuster last week. 

Tauiliili is representing the two nurses, Leutogi Teo and Luse Emo Tauvale, who are both charged in relation to the death of the babies.

Lawyer Maureen Tuimaleali’fano appeared on instructions for Tauiliili. Chief Justice, Patu Tiava'asue Falefatu Sapolu presided the matter.

Prosecutor, Lucy Sio Ofoia, told the Court the only reason the matter was called again on Monday is because of the request from defense counsel for the pathologist report. 

“Your Honour, I respectfully advise that the post-mortem report into the death of the two babies has been served,” said Mrs. Ofoia.

“It was served on the 23 November last year and is in the possession of defense counsel.”

In response, Ms. Tuimaleali’ifano said the report has been located and they are ready to proceed. 

The matter has been adjourned on June 10 for hearing.  

Both Ms. Teo and Ms. Tauvale are facing charges of manslaughter, conspiracy to defeat the course of justice and negligence in relation to the death of the two babies. 

They pleaded not guilty to the charges.  

By Lanuola Tusani Tupufia - Ah Tong 02 April 2019, 12:00AM

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