Arson accused talked about blowing up 'strategic targets'

The man accused of torching a historic Otaki church admitted yesterday that he had discussed blowing up "strategic targets" with other inmates at Linton Prison near Palmerston North.

He also admitted he was released on bail just two days before the fire in 1995.

Francis Shaw, 38, made the admissions on the fourth day of his trial at Palmerston North District Court for setting fire to the historic Rangiatea church on October 7, 1995.

Shaw, who is representing himself, told the jury he heard fellow inmates talking about blowing up targets and he offered his own suggestions.

"I had lots of targets inside my head that would do far more damage," he said.

Shaw has admitted telling people he burned down the church, but said he only did that to cause offence.

He said that the fire was started by two other men who had since died.

Prosecutor Ben Vanderkolk suggested to Shaw that after his release from prison on bail, he met the two men he accused of the arson -- Richard McCarrison and Rongo Elkington -- at a property near the church.

Shaw said there was a group discussion where a "remark" was made about burning down the church, but he asked to be dropped off at home.

In closing the prosecution case, Mr Vanderkolk said Shaw was guilty of arson even if he was only a party to it and he did not withdraw sufficiently from the group.

Mr Vanderkolk said the charge of arson includes inciting, counselling or procuring any person to commit the offence.

He said Shaw made confessions to a diverse group of people and the fire was a means for him to express a grievance against the Anglican Church.

A juror was discharged yesterday morning, but the court has not allowed the reason to be published.

The trial is expected to end today.

- NZPA