Visit to 'victim' lands man's partner in court

Marion Palmer thought she was helping her partner by visiting her partner's alleged rape victim.

But the actions of the 32-year-old Kawerau woman, whose partner encouraged her to visit the rape complainant and convince her to "tell the truth", instead resulted in a charge of attempting to pervert the course of justice.

Appearing in the Whakatane District Court yesterday Palmer was sentenced to 12 months' home detention and 200 hours' community work. Palmer had previously pleaded guilty.

Prosecutor Julie O'Brien told the court yesterday the charge usually resulted in a term of prison.

"But this is the first case since the new sentencing rules came into place so there are no cases that can set a precedent. Palmer also has the care of her three children."

Palmer's lawyer Pete Attwood said his client had been naive and didn't realise the consequences of her actions.

"Her partner also has a malevolent influence over her," he said.

Judge Thomas Ingram said the court relied on people not interfering with its processes.

- Daily Post