The Herald will consider challenging a court order suppressing the bulk of depositions evidence in a high-profile assault case.
Joshua Wiremu McIsaac was yesterday committed for trial on charges of causing grievous bodily harm to Auckland barrister John Timmins and stealing his $30,000 BMW.
Mr Timmins was found badly beaten in an Onehunga industrial estate in October.
Written briefs of evidence from more than 20 witnesses were handed to two justices of the peace in the Auckland District Court yesterday.
But the contents of six of those briefs were suppressed at the request of Crown Solicitor Simon Moore, who appeared on behalf of the police.
The JPs also agreed to suppress publication of all submissions made in support of the order.
A memorandum issued by Chief District Court Judge Ron Young to all District Court judges and JPs this year instructs that a ruling should be made as to whether press access to the written depositions is granted.
Judge Young expected that in "the vast majority of cases" such access would be allowed.
Because of the suppression, the Herald was yesterday able to view the contents of the suppressed evidence but is unable to publish it.
The paper's lawyers are now seeking clarification of the reasons for the suppression and may challenge the order.
Herald considers bid to lift secrecy order
AdvertisementAdvertise with NZME.