Depositions on Fulcher adjourned a week

Press, 12 February 1986, Page 6

Depositions on Fulcher adjourned a week

PA Auckland The taking of depositions against Peter Fulcher have been adjourned for a week until the Court of Appeal decides whether the 22 drug-related charges against him can be heard. Fulcher, aged 45, a company director, formerly of Birkdale, faces 22 charges relating to possession of heroin for supply, conspiring to supply heroin, importing heroin and conspiring to import heroin. Mr J. Jaffe and Mr J. H. Coulom, Justices of the Peace, decided it would be unwise for them to

accept depositions until the Court of Appeal hearing next Tuesday. The Court will decide if it has the jurisdiction to rule on a High Court decision on whether Fulcher should face the charges. The Crown Solicitor, Mr Robert Fardell, said the delay could jeopardise arrangements for calling three Australian witnesses. “Some have to give evidence in hearings in Australia. There could be severe logistical difficulties,” he said. “Pre-planning is essential as bringing them from Australia is a delicate ar-

rangement.” Mr Fardell said the adjournment sought by the defence was calculated to cause disruption. Defence counsel, Mr George Howley, said it was pointless and a waste of time to embark on lengthy depositions when the Court of Appeal might decide against charges being heard. “There is nothing to be lost in waiting and seeing,” he said. Depositions have been rescheduled for Wednesday, February 19—the day after the Court of Appeal sits. The prosecution is calling 47 witnesses.