Court adjourns vehicular manslaughter trial

By Joyetter Feagaimaali’i-Luamanu 17 January 2019, 12:00AM

The three-day Supreme Court trial of a man who faces one count of vehicular manslaughter was postponed yesterday, after the defense said it was not ready to proceed.

Motu Taula is facing the charge of one count of vehicular manslaughter, in connection to the death of 17-year-old Orlando Manulelia. 

The crash occurred at Saleufi in front of the Mai Company premises where a white car smashed on impact into a power pole in July, 2018. 

Taula is represented by lawyer, Maiava Visekota Peteru while Vei Fa'asi'i of the Attorney General’s office is prosecuting the case. 

During the proceedings yesterday, Maiava advised the Court that the defense is unable to proceed, as they had just been served with additional statements by the prosecution. 

Fa’asi’i did not object to the application by the defense for an adjournment. 

Supreme Court Justice, Tafaoimalo Leilani Tuala-Warren, then set this matter for re-mention next week Monday to schedule another hearing date. 

Present in the court were prosecution witnesses and Elaine and Joseph Manulelia, the parents of Orlando. 

By Joyetter Feagaimaali’i-Luamanu 17 January 2019, 12:00AM
Samoa Observer

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