Robber threatened bar boss with shotgun, jury told
An armed robber pointed a shotgun at a Te Puke bar manager and two patrons before fleeing with more than $2000 in cash, a jury has been told.
A Te Puke couple are on trial defending charges relating to the gunpoint robbery at Te Puke's Inbargo Bar and Bistro. Accused Kane Peter Wall, 32, whose trial began in Tauranga District Court yesterday, has denied one count each of aggravated robbery, assault with a weapon and injuring with intent to injure.
His partner Jessica Pohuturangi Dinsdale, 22, is defending one count of attempting to pervert the course of justice.
Crown prosecutor Duncan McWilliam said that in the early hours of October 15, 2011, a man wearing a hooded sweatshirt and clothing across his face entered the Inbargo Bar and Bistro armed with a single-barrel pump-action shotgun.
The robber pointed the gun at two patrons, Lesley Clark and Sonny Savage, and Mr Clark was struck on the side of the head.
Mr McWilliam said Wall then pointed the gun at Aaron Searle, who was helping his partner Kerry Winter close up and demanded money, before pointing the gun at Ms Winter. The robber then left with $2700.
Lawyers for the two accused Bill Nabney and Peter Attwood urged the jury to keep an open mind. The trial is expected to take four days.
