31 Aug 2015

Solvent attack accused in court

11:50 am on 31 August 2015

An elderly man charged over an attack on a homeless man in Nelson has been remanded without plea in the Nelson District Court today.

Lewis Stanton.

Lewis Stanton. Photo: RNZ / Alison Hossain

Lewis Stanton, also known as Hone Ma Heke, was sleeping rough outside the Nelson City Council when he had an unknown solvent poured into his mouth.

He was hospitalised with burns to his lips, mouth and throat.

The man charged with the assault has been remanded for a psychiatric report and to see if he is fit to stand trial.