Dwarf only came out at night, court told

A Hamilton man found near the scene of three early-morning arsons said he chose to walk at night out of the public gaze.

Shane Anthony Reid, 27, a dwarf, denies three charges of arson at Cambridge High School on March 16, Forest Lake Primary School on May 20 last year and the Te Rapa police station in May 2001.

Defence lawyer Tom Sutcliffe said because of Reid's physical stature, he chose to stay inside during the day and go out at night.

"He will explain what he sees that goes on in the dead of night when most people are asleep," Mr Sutcliffe said.

The jury would hear from a scientist and a linguist. Mr Sutcliffe said the latter would refute the crown's evidence that Reid had made a bogus 111 call the day before allegedly setting fire to Cambridge High School.

Reid said he had lived alone since the age of 18 and was often picked on.

"I didn't like going out during the day because I'm different to everybody else," he said.

He preferred going out at night because he would not be stared at.

Reid admitted he was fascinated with fire engines and police cars, particularly their lights.

He often drove his car and talked to service station attendants at night because he was lonely.

When asked if he always told the truth, Reid said "on some occasions, but not on others", particularly when police were asking about his nocturnal ramblings.

He could not answer if he lit the fires. "The answer is not in my mind," he said.

The trial continues.

- NZPA