A High Court jury considering its verdict for two men charged with the murder of a Whanganui gang leader has been sent home for the day.
Craig Rippon, 57, was a founding member of Whanganui Black Power, but in more recent times had become known for his community work.
From left: Mathew Thomas Madams, Kevin Roy Madams, and Tyrone Peter Madams, on trial for the murder of Craig Rippon. Photo: Murray Wilson/Fairfax NZ
Mr Rippon was killed in November last year in an argument over a puppy.
Tyrone Peter Madams and Kevin Roy Madams were charged with Mr Rippon's murder and with participating in a criminal organisation.
The Crown says they took part in an act of premeditated "gang warfare".
Their defence says they did not plan to kill Mr Rippon and were not there when he received the fatal blows.
Co-accused Matthew Thomas Madams, 37, and a youth accepted a lesser charge of manslaughter.
Another youth had the case against him dismissed.
In June, Tyrone William Madams, 39, pleaded guilty to Mr Rippon's murder and was sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum non-parole period of 12 years.
