A Tauranga man has denied assaulting Merivale father Lance Scullin - who was found dead near his house - and plans to defend the allegation at a jury trial.
Anthony Jack Taikato, 32, who appeared in Tauranga District Court today has denied charges of assault with intent to injure, common assault and participating in an organised criminal group.
Another local man Mihaka Ratahi, 21, who made his first appearance in the same court today, is also charged with assaulting Mr Scullin with a blunt instrument, namely a piece of wood.
Ratahi, who is also faced a joint charge of participating in an organised criminal group, was remanded on bail to appear back in court on January 14 to enter pleas to the charges.
Mr Scullin, 50, was found dead in the backyard of his Kesteven Rd property on December 1.