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A Wellington musician facing seven counts of sex crimes received a name expungement and was placed in pre-trial detention under strict conditions until next month.
Photo: RNZ / Dan Cook
The 23-year-old was arrested as a result of Operation Emerald, a police investigation into allegations that a group of musicians had assaulted and drugged several men and women.
At least six victims have spoken to the police.
In Wellington District Court today, Judge Pat Grace ordered the man to be released on bail until January 28, 2021. He has been bailed at an address, but must remain there at all times.
The man has been charged with two counts of indecent assault and five of rape, but did not plead guilty.
Under the conditions of bail, the man must surrender his passport, not leave the country, not consume alcohol or drugs, not contact victims or witnesses associated with the case and not threaten violence.
Judge Grace indicated that he would consider the name suppression at the man’s next court appearance.
