'Power struggle' delays decision

The lawyer for two Waitara women who together face 60 charges of supplying methamphetamine has criticised police for failing to agree to reduce the charges because of a "power struggle" within their ranks.

Sharon Haami, 39, has again been remanded in custody on 41 charges while Hineata Wipiti, 25, who faces 19 charges, remains on bail following their arrest in December.

The two women were due to plead to those charges yesterday in the New Plymouth District Court.

But their lawyer, Susan Hughes, QC, told Judge Allan Roberts that a police officer who had agreed to "dramatically" reduce the charges had come into conflict with another of equal rank who disagreed with the reduction.

Ms Hughes said the disagreement had left her lacking confidence in police "offering deals".

Ms Hughes said she had asked that an officer of more senior rank intervene.

"Hopefully police will put their house in order and resolve the issue," Ms Hughes said.

Judge Roberts noted Ms Hughes' comments, allowing for the case to be re-heard on March 19.

Before the hearing, Haami bragged from the dock that her supporters and family filled the whole of the front row of the public gallery.

Through Ms Hughes, Haami then pleaded guilty to one additional charge of supplying meth two weeks ago when she was on bail.

She will be sentenced on that one charge on February 18.

Outside court, the police Central Region prosecutions boss, Senior Sergeant Malcolm Greig, said as head of prosecutions he had the responsibility of making the final decision on what charges the women would face and would not be rushed.

"It's always regrettable when any counsel feels aggrieved. We're working through the issues to come to a resolution that will satisfy the prosecution and the defence."

Open, free and frank discussion was held between parties as to the appropriateness of charges within the Solicitor- General's prosecution guidelines, he said.

"We do not plea bargain, we do negotiate," Mr Greig said.

However, methamphetamine offending was treated seriously in Taranaki, he said.

"We will be carefully considering our options. Withdrawing 40 charges is extremely disturbing. The prosecution would not enter into that lightly."

- © Fairfax NZ News