The trial of a man accused of murder has been abandoned after
one juror did internet research and another used a book to do
research.
Wilson Apatu, 40, was being tried in the High Court in Napier
for murdering Layden Rameka, attempting to murder his
eight-year-old son and entering their home in Waikoau, north
of Napier, intending to commit homicide last August.
But Justice Forrest Miller ordered a new trial and jury after
he was made aware of the juror research, which had been
brought into the court room, the Dominion Post reported
today.
Jurors are directed not to seek information outside the
courtroom and avoid doing internet research.
The new trial will begin on Monday.
The jurors could face penalties including fines or terms of
imprisonment for being in contempt of court.
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