Victims, survivors and loved ones have continued to deliver moving victim impact statements at the Christchurch High Court. Video / Chris Tarpey
Christchurch mosque shooter Brenton Tarrant has indicated he will not speak at his own sentencing tomorrow.
It has been confirmed tonight in the High Court at Christchurch that the convicted mass murderer has no intention of making any personal submissions in court tomorrow before his sentence is handed down.
He is representing himself, but a lawyer instructed to act as stand by counsel will make "brief" submissions after being instructed by the killer.
On March 15 2019 Australian national Tarrant stormed into two Christchurch mosques during Friday prayer and opened fire on men, women and children worshipping.
As a result of his attack 51 people died and 40 were wounded.
He initially pleaded not guilty to his offending but later changed his tune and admitted 51 charges of murder, 40 counts of attempted murder and one of engaging in a terrorist act laid under the Terrorism Suppression Act 2002.
Sentencing for the 29-year-old started on Monday in the High Court at Christchurch before Justice Cameron Mander.
Since then 91 victims have read impact statements to the court.
Tonight Justice Mander confirmed the planned schedule for the final part of the sentencing.
Brenton Tarrant in the Christchurch High Court. Photo / Pool
Tomorrow's sentencing will begin with submissions from Christchurch Crown Solicitor Mark Zarifeh.
Then Pip Hall QC – who was assigned as stand-by counsel for Tarrant after he sacked his legal team – will make brief sub on behalf of the convicted mass murderer.
The court will then hear from Kerry Cook, a lawyer appointed to assist Justice Mander on any legal issues relating to the self-representing killer.
Justice Mander will then hand down the final sentence.
By law he must impose a life sentence with a minimum non-parole period of 17 years.
However it is understood the Crown will seek life without parole.
