|
Allegations of Abuse
in NZ |
||
|
Tea Ropati - League Star accused
of rape |
||
|
Newstalk ZB The jury has retired at the rape and sexual violation
trial of former rugby league international Tea Ropati. Ropati is facing six counts of sexual violation relating to
an incident in June 2006. The Crown alleges the offending took place at The
Whiskey, which is a bar on Auckland's Ponsonby Rd, and then in Ropati's car. The Auckland District Court was packed with Ropati's family
and friends, including his wife and brother. In summing up, Judge Phil Gittos said some of the evidence
may have been disturbing, but he urged the jury to put aside any moral
judgments and focus on the evidence. He said the Crown's main argument focused on the lack of
consent, while the defence suggested the complainant was a willing
participant. |
||
