Radio NZ
May 22 2008; 00:24

Gwaze faith

The defence lawyer who successfully represented a Christchurch man accused of murdering his niece, says the faith his client's family has in the justice system was a great help over the past 15 months.

George Gwaze was yesterday cleared of having played any part in the death of Charlene Makaza.

His lawyer, Jonathon Eaton, says the case was unusual as the defence did not believe a crime had been committed at all.

He says the 10 year old died of natural causes stemming from her HIV infection.

The Crown said Mr Gwaze suffocated the child while sexually abusing her.

A High Court jury returned its not guilty verdicts after deliberating for three and a half hours.