Gang member cut off man's finger

Two gang members who cut off a man's finger as retribution for talking about gang activities have been convicted of maiming.

Terrence Austin McFarland, 44, of Glen Eden, was found guilty by a jury in the Auckland District Court last night. Michael Robert Brooks, 34, of Te Atatu South, changed his plea to guilty on the second day of the trial. Charges of kidnapping were dismissed.

They were charged after a 22-year-old man had the little finger of his right hand cut off as punishment after he had told others about the Head Hunters gang business.

Both men were remanded in custody until next month to be sentenced.

The victim, who was not a gang member or prospect but who moved on the fringes of the gang, spoke to a gang prospect about seeing a bashing that left a man seriously injured.

Detective Brendon Pearson from the Henderson police said the guilty verdict sent a strong message to gang members and victims that if they had a problem with gangs, justice would be served if police were notified.

He said it was a big call by the victim to complain to police when he feared so much for his safety.

"They get so terrified by these guys. A lot of them are too afraid to take it any further," Mr Pearson said.

"We are very happy for the victim who has been through a huge ordeal. It is nice to see these guys think they can get away with this sort of thing but they can't."

He said the victim was told if he mentioned the beating he would be killed.

An earlier court hearing heard the terrified man held a knife over his right little finger while a gang prospect hit the knife with a sledge hammer, cleanly slicing off his finger.

- NZPA