5 Apr 2013

Kidnap accused named

1:58 pm on 5 April 2013

Two people charged after a series of events including the discovery of a woman's body outside a hospital in Matamata can now be named.

Thomas McDonald, 30, and Cheyanne McCausland, 23, were arrested on Wednesday and charged with aggravated robbery, kidnap, injuring with intent and stealing a car.

Early on Wednesday morning the body of Jovaan Rahera Graham, of Tauranga, was found by security staff outside the private Pohlen Hospital in Matamata.

Police believe the 18-year-old's death is linked to a string of events including a car crash on State Highway 29 in the Kaimai Ranges, an assault and the theft of a car.

Both made a second court appearance in Tauranga today and were remanded in custody to appear again on 16 April.