Gang member walks free from murder trial

File photo / NZH

Charges against one of the seven remaining accused in a gang-related murder trial in the High Court in Rotorua have been dropped.

Kingi Morgan Gemmell, 40, has been discharged by Justice Edwin Wylie.

The trial relates to a clash between Kawerau Mongrel Mob members and Murupara's Tribesmen gang at Murupara in January last year. The clash left 16-year-old Jordan Herewini dead after he was allegedly deliberately run down with a vehicle.

Gemmell faced two counts of aggravated burglary, one of injuring Jordan's brother Jamie with intent to injure him and participating in an organised criminal group, the Mongrel Mob, knowing it may have led to criminal activity.

Six accused remain on trial including Quentin Pukeroa, 32, who is charged with Jordan Herewini's murder and the attempted murder of Iwi Delamere.

Earlier another accused, Lynette Teddy, 38, pleaded guilty to participating in a criminal group and was remanded for sentencing in December.

The trial is into its third week and today the jury was taken to Murupara to inspect the scene of the alleged offending.

It is anticipated the Crown, which is calling 85 witnesses, will conclude its case next week.

- NZPA