26 Mar 2013

NZ accused unlikely to face early trial in Canada

8:42 am on 26 March 2013

The police in Canada say court processes against a New Zealander facing sexual assault charges will take a considerable time.

Michael Farley is accused of beating and tying up a 42-year-old sex worker who was further injured when she was dragged behind his van while trying to jump from the vehicle.

The 39-year-old from Palmerston North was arrested in Vancouver on Friday and charged with offences including kidnapping and stupefying.

Sergeant Randy Fincham of Vancouver police told Radio New Zealand's Morning Report programme police are checking whether any other attacks are linked to Farley.

Mr Fincham said none have been found so far but investigations are continuing and this will take time.

He said it is possible Farley may appear in court in six months, but it it is likely it will be a year or even two before a trial takes place.

Farley was due to be sentenced on a charge of perverting the course of justice when he fled New Zealand using a false passport.