2 Jul 2009

Seven in court over Nomad gang assaults

9:28 pm on 2 July 2009

Seven people have appeared in court on Thursday over a series of assaults in Horowhenua.

Police say the assaults relate to conflict within the ranks of the Nomad gang.

The incidents occurred in Levin and Foxton during the lead-up to the tangi of the gang's leader Dennis Hines.

Police say Mr Hines founded the area's Nomad chapter and his death caused rifts between members.

Six people aged between 19 and 42 appeared in Levin District Court on Thursday.

Anthony Cootes, Hayden Cootes, Michael Taueki, Tawhiti Climie and Eric Brown were remanded in custody when they appeared in Levin District Court charged with a variety of offences, including injuring with intent and discharging a firearm.

Anthony Cootes, Mr Taueki and Mr Brown were until 8 July. Mr Climie was remanded until 15 July, while Hayden Cootes was remanded until 22 July.

Chea Paratene Charles Brattle Hemau was remanded on bail until 22 July, but with strict conditions. He has to abide by an overnight curfew, is not to wear gang insignia and is not to associate with any Nomad gang members prospects or associates.

A seventh man appeared at court at an undisclosed location charged with injuring with intent. He was remanded in custody until 8 July.