Ex-clergyman may defend indecent assault charge

File photo / Glenn Jeffrey

A former Auckland Methodist minister, accused of indecently assaulting a 17-year-old youth at a motel has indicated he may defend the charge.

Kenneth Smith was today remanded by a Christchurch District Court registrar for a post-committal conference on April 23, Christchurch Court News website reported.

Smith was now due to have the case considered by a judge who will decide whether it will proceed to a jury trial.

Smith was a minister at Waitakere and Auckland Synod superintendent before moving to Christchurch.

- NZPA