Accused denies stand-off charges

Rhys Warren.

The man alleged to be at the centre of an armed stand-off with police at Onepu near Kawerau this month has pleaded not guilty to all charges.

Rhys Richard Ngahiwi Warren, 27, of Coastlands, was scheduled to appear in the Rotorua District Court today but a court officer advised the case had been dealt with in judge's chambers yesterday following applications by both the Crown and defence.

Defence counsel entered not guilty pleas and elected trial by jury on all charges.

By consent of both parties, Warren's next appearance will be in the Tauranga District Court on May 31 via audio visual link for a case review hearing.

Warren was remanded in custody until that date.

Suppression orders made at his first appearance would continue, including the identities of the injured police officers.

Warren faces four charges of using a firearm against four police officers on March 9.

The charges have a maximum penalty of 14 years' prison.