July 04, 2014
Tough lesson for Paki prince
A spokesperson for the Maori king says the sentencing of the king’s son showed Maori cultural values were recognised.
Korotangi Paki faced three charges in relation to the theft of surfboards in Gisborne in March, and a drunk driving charge from last October.
In the Auckland District Court yesterday Judge Philippa Cunningham discharged him without conviction on the theft and burglary charges and on the driving charge it is conditional on him presenting evidence he did not have an alcohol problem.
Tukoroirangi Morgan says the judge took into account submissions that a conviction on any charge would affect Paki’s future role in the kingitanga.
She also considered the mana restoration process the tribe imposed on the 18-year-old and his three co-accused.
"This young man along with the three others have already done 120 hours of community work in Gisborne, they have got 60 hours outstanding. That restorative programme which has been heralded by Judge Ria in Gisborne as the most compehensive rehabilitation and reformative process that he has ever seen in his time on the bench, is extraordinary," Mr Morgan says.
He says Paki regrets the shame his actions have had on his father and his tribe.
FOR THE FULL INTERVIEW WITH TUKOROIRANGI MORGAN CLICK ON THE LINK
https://secure.zeald.com/uma/play_podcast?podlink=MTk4MDE=
Copyright © 2014, UMA Broadcasting Ltd