Wire Manuel Reddington has been found guilty of murdering his friend Jamie Gill at a property in Carterton following a jury deliberation of just over three hours.
Reddington was convicted today in the High Court in Wellington for the June 2023 killing of Gill, whose body was found in a ditch with signs of strangulation and injuries consistent with a violent attack.
The incident occurred after a night of heavy drug and alcohol consumption involving Reddington, his brother Tipene, and their mother.
While Reddington’s defense suggested that Tipene, known for his violent outbursts, may have been responsible, the jury sided with the Crown’s argument that Reddington acted in a drug-fuelled rage, resulting in Gill’s death.
The case involved detailed forensic evidence and testimonies from multiple psychiatrists, with Reddington’s defense also attempting to argue an insanity plea based on his mental health history.
Reddington has been remanded in custody until his sentencing in December.
