8 Oct 2004

Two brothers-in-law to re-appear in Pitcairn court

8:17 am on 8 October 2004

Two brothers-in-law will re-appear in the Pitcairn Supreme Court today as the sex abuse trials on the island continue.

Dave Brown made his first appearance last week charged with two counts of gross indecency and 13 of indecent assault, including one relating to a five-year-old girl.

The court will also hear more evidence in the trial of the Pitcairn mayor, Steve Christian, who's accused of 6 rapes and 4 indecent assaults.

The prosecution says Brown, who's one of the island's tractor drivers, thought young girls were available for him if and when he chose.

He's the son of the oldest defendant Len Brown, and the brother-in-law of the most prominent, Steve Christian.

The charges against Dave Brown relate to five alleged victims, including a five year old girl and another under 13.

Until now he's pleaded not guilty to all the charges.

In the Steve Christian trial the court will hear from four defence witnesses.