3 Sep 2014

Morris murder accused to be named

2:38 pm on 3 September 2014

A 33-year-old man charged with the murder of a prominent gang member's son has lost his bid to continue name suppression - despite his lawyer having concerns for his safety.

Connor Morris and partner Millie Elder-Holmes.

Connor Morris and partner Millie Elder-Holmes. Photo: Facebook

However, the suppression will continue for a further two days while lawyer Marie Dyhrberg seeks to have it extended in the Court of Appeal.

The man was excused from attending a hearing in the High Court at Auckland today, where there was a large police presence.

Justice Brewer declined to continue his name suppression, saying many people in the community know the man's name.

The issue was one of security, and the police were the largest gang in the country, he said - bringing a cheer from a public gallery packed with supporters for Mr Morris, the partner of Millie Elder-Holmes.

That prompted Justice Brewer to warn them to keep their emotions in check.

Despite giving the go-ahead to name the man - if the Court of Appeal bid is not successful - Justice Brewer suppressed the identity of the man's partner and child, and their whereabouts.

He set a trial date for August next year.

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