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The man accused of sexually violating a teenager at gunpoint on New Year's Day has been granted electronic bail.
Parata Aarron Tamihere, 20, of New Plymouth, appeared in New Plymouth District Court yesterday, the Taranaki Daily News reported.
The labourer is accused of abducting the 18-year-old woman at gunpoint before sexually violating her at the Fitzroy Golf Club in the early hours of January 1.
He is charged with using an imitation firearm to abduct the woman for sexual intercourse, detaining her by duress with the intent to have sexual intercourse, sexual violation, impersonating a police officer and theft.
Applying for electronic bail, Tamihere's defence lawyer Barry Henderson said the accused was entitled to the presumption of innocence and there was an issue of identification.
Mr Henderson said the alleged victim was not able to pick Tamihere out of photo montages at the police station.
DNA evidence, which is usually accurate to millions, showed there was a one in 44 chance that Tamihere was the particular person.
"This is simply a maybe," Mr Henderson said.
The lawyer said Tamihere could stay with an aunt in Matamata, where he would be closely monitored.
Police prosecutor Sergeant Lewis Sutton said Mr Henderson's suggestion Tamihere had not been identified was outrageous. Mr Sutton said police opposed bail.
Judge Robert Murfitt said he was satisfied the Matamata address was suitable, Tamihere was not a flight risk and would not interfere with witnesses.
Judge Murfitt remanded Tamihere on e-bail to reappear on April 15 for a depositions hearing.
- NZPA
