9 Jan 2013

Rape accused back in court on Friday

5:04 am on 9 January 2013

The man accused of the rape of a 62-year-old woman at the Victory Community Gardens in Nelson on New Year's Day, has appeared briefly in court.

Hilton Hone Heke, 22, reappeared in the Nelson District Court on Tuesday morning charged with kidnapping, aggravated injury, injuring with intent to injure, indecent assault and four counts of sexual violation.

No plea was entered during his brief appearance.

Lawyer, Tony Bamford told Radio New Zealand that interim name supression granted on Monday, lapsed on Tuesday and he did not seek to have it extended.

The accused will remain in custody and is due to re-appear in court on Friday