Medals theft accused's name suppressed

The identity of a second man charged in connection with the theft of medals from the Waiouru Army Museum will remain suppressed while depositions are heard in the Wanganui District Court.

Eight Victoria Crosses and one VC and bar, were among the 96 medals stolen from the museum in 2007.

An application for continued suppression of the man's name and the suppression of evidence to be presented during a hearing which could last two to three weeks was today granted by Judge Paul Barber.

While acknowledging the interest and the rights of the media he said it was also important that the defendant received a fair trial and there were matters which could prejudice this if his name and the evidence was published at this stage.

Prosecutor Lance Rowe and defence counsel Jeremy Bioletti both agreed it was desirable the suppression orders continue.

The start of the hearing was briefly delayed while court staff held a noisy demonstration in the street outside the court as part of a nationwide one-hour strike for better pay.

The suppression of the name of another man already sentenced to 11 years jail for his part in the burglary is due to be considered in Auckland early this afternoon.

- NZPA