A 37-year-old man accused of breaking into two Christchurch homes last year and sexually attacking and robbing women occupants was committed for trial following a depositions hearing today.
In Christchuch District Court Edwin John Tuhua, unemployed was accused of indecently assaulting a 67-year-old woman at the scene of the first burglary in suburban Avonhead, robbing her of $90, and assaulting her with intent to commit sexual violation, the Christchurch Court News website reported.
He faced the same charges in relation to a 58-year-old woman in the second burglary in suburban Dallington, where police allege $190 was taken.
Evidence from 11 of the 12 witnesses was handed in written to Judge Anne Kiernan, but the court heard DNA sample evidence from a Environmental Science and Research scientist.
At the end of the hearing, defence counsel Richardr McGuire elected not to call evidence.
Tuhua pleaded not guilty to the charges and he was remanded in custody for a High Court pre-trial conference on June 19, when a trial date is likely to be set.
