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Allegations of Abuse
in NZ |
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Tea Ropati - League Star accused of
rape |
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Newstalk ZB A defence witness for Tea Ropati
says she cannot remember all the events of the evening he is accused of
raping and sexually violating a woman. The prosecution claims the former
rugby league international sexually violated a 36-year-old woman at Auckland
bar The Whiskey, then later raped her in his car in an inner city carpark in
the early hours of June 15, 2006. A female witness, who has name
suppression, today gave evidence at Ropati's trial in the Auckland District
Court. She told the court she chatted
with Ropati at The Whiskey on the night the woman was allegedly sexually violated.
The witness said she did not believe he was a sexual predator. However, the Crown prosecutor then
produced security footage which showed her entering the women's toilets, and
being followed inside by Ropati. The woman said could not remember the incident,
or recall anything untoward taking place. The woman's evidence followed
former rugby league players Dean Lonergan and Tawera Nikau being called as
character witnesses. Mr Lonergan told the court he has
known Ropati for more than 20 years, describing him as "a gentle man who
shows a great deal of respect to women". Mr Nikau said Ropati is a
"good bloke" and rejected suggestions he is sleazy. The trial has adjourned and will
resume on Tuesday. |
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