A Moment In Crime

In 2011 Dean Richard Mulligan was sentenced to life in prison for the murder of his girlfriend Marice McGregor. 

Marice was reported missing by her family in April 2010 and it emerged she had not been seen or heard from in the 10 days before they approached police. 

For weeks police searched and appealed for information - as did Marice's family. 

What happened to Marice? How did she die? And what was her killer's explanation?

In this episode of A Moment In Crime host Anna Leask - a senior journalist for the NZ Herald - tells the story of Marice McGregor and the callous man who killed her. 

To read more on this case click on the links below. 

New twist in Marice hunt

Alleged killer's road to court 

Mulligan gets life for murder 

DO YOU NEED HELP?

If you are being abused - in any way -remember, it’s not your fault. 

For help and information contact:

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

George Gwaze was tried and acquitted in 2008 and 2012 after the death of his adopted daughter 10-year-old Charlene Makaza.

Charlene was rushed to hospital in a terrible state in January 2007 and died after her little body effectively shut down due to massive infection - doctors and experts unable to do anything to save her. 

Her family - who had moved to New Zealand from Zimbabwe for a better life - were scrutinised by police and the public. 

George Gwaze was then charged with sexually violating and suffocating Charlene to death. 

He maintained his innocence and after a trial - where the Crown argued murder and the defence argued death by HIV-related symptoms  - was found not guilty by a jury.

In an unprecedented move the Crown appealed the acquittal to New Zealand's highest court and won. A retrial was ordered.

This episode of A Moment In Crime I cover Charlenes death, the sad aftermath and the trials. 

This episode refers to child sexual abuse and violence and may be upsetting - it is intended for a mature audience.

If the content raises any issues for you - please see below for a list of help and crisis agencies.

READ MORE:

Acquitted uncle tells his story 

Gwaze relieved by not guilty verdict

Retrial ordered for murder accused

Gwaze trial miscarriage of justice - Solicitor General 

George Gwaze on trial for rape, murder of his niece

Gwaze trial - medical staff feared child had meningitis 

Gwaze trial: police describe detailed scene exam

For more on Felicity Goodyear-Smith and her book The Murder That Wasn't, published in 2015 - visit goodyearsmith.com orclick here. 

DO YOU NEED HELP?

If you've ever experienced sexual assault or abuse and need to talk to someone, contact Safe to Talk confidentially, any time 24/7:

Call 0800 044 334
Text 4334
Email support@safetotalk.nz
For more information visit safetotalk.nz

If you have been sexually assaulted, remember it's not your fault.</strong>

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jane Furlong was 17 when she went missing from Auckland's Karangahape Rd in May 1993.

Her partner Dani Norsworthy reported her missing two days after she was last seen.

She was a new mum and a part time sex worker and while she'd had a troubled and turbulent life, was doing her best to carve out a future for herself. 

For almost two decades - despite extensive police investigations - there was no sign of Jane, no clues to what happened to her or who was responsible. 

In remains were finally discovered in 2012, buried in the dunes at Sunset Beach, Port Waikato.

The next year police announced a $50,000 reward for anyone who provided information or evidence that would lead to the conviction of Furlong's killer.

Despite the cash offer, and a major police investigation spanning more than 26 years - dubbed Operation Darlia - an arrest is yet to be made.

To date, police have not arrested anyone in connection with Jane's disappearance or death and her case remains one of the most enduring mysteries in New Zealand. 

CAN YOU HELP?

If you know what happened to Jane Furlong or have information that could help the Operation Darlia police team - please come forward.

Contact police on 0800 2653 2273 (0800 COLD CASE) or click here to submit information online.

You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or click here to offer information online.

READ MORE ABOUT OPERATION DARLIA HERE:

1998 Flashback: Teenage dreams cut short in K Rd

Skeleton found on beach identified

Jane Furlong gets a final farewell

Murder victim's son speaks out

Jane Furlong murder: Police revisiting 'crucial' period, killer's silence 'pathetic'

Person of interest in 26-year-long Jane Furlong murder cold case

Editorial: The death of Jane Furlong - someone knows something. It's time to come forward

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of A Moment In Crime - the last for 2023 - senior journalist Anna Leask looks back at some of the country’s most brazen prison escapes, and speaks to one of the most high-profile escapees in history.

Arthur Taylor spent almost a month on the run with two murderers and a robber after masterminding an escape from New Zealand’s toughest prison at Paremoremo near Auckland.

You’ll also hear from others who escaped multiple times including Dean Wickliffe, and, about why inmates go on the lam.

To date, no one has everescaped prison in New Zealand and managed to stay away forever - they are all caught and hauled back eventually.

Butover the years many a man - and a couple of women - have tried.

Leask has covered a number of these escapes for the Herald and canvassed many more in her book Behind Bars, published in 2017.

A full spread that further details the escapes is also available on nzherald.co.nz.

This episode contains strong language and is suited to a mature audience. 

For more on Leask's book Behind Bars click here.

Read more:

Exclusive: Dean Wickliffe, the life and times of New Zealand's most 'notorious' crim

Exclusive: Notorious criminal Dean Wickliffe pens book about 41 years behind bars

Rimutaka Prison escapee guilty of rape, assault with a weapon and abduction, name suppression lapses for Damon John Exley

Phillip Smith's long history of terrifying and abusive behaviour

Whereabouts up in air

Greed the downfall of New Zealand's 'Godfather'

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In 2000 Ronald Van Der Plaat became one of the country’s most infamous sex offenderswhen he was jailed for a litany of horrific abuse against his daughter spanning 23 years.

He started raping, sexually violating and indecently assaulting his daughter Tanjas when she was just 9 when the family were living in Vanuatu.

For the next 23 years, he would keep her as a sex slave, subjecting her to “bizarre and depraved” abusewhich only ended when she became pregnant to him - not for the first time - and suffered a miscarriage.

Van Der Plaat would use handcuffs, chains and clamps on Tanjas during sadistic sex sessions.

He would ply her with alcohol and sedatives before sex - once resulting in an overdose that left her with a permanent heart problem.

In the latest episode of Herald podcast A Moment In Crimejournalist Anna Leask looks back at the ghastly offending.

The episode also features first-hand accounts of the abuse from Tanjas, from her book Flight of the Dancing Bird which she released after her father was imprisoned. 

This episode contains references to physical and sexual abuse - and child abuse. It is suitable for a mature audience and may be upsetting. 

The episode also contains brief extracts from the book Flight Of The Dancing Bird, published by Tanjas Darke published in 2001 by HarperCollins. The book is available at local libraries and can be purchased online. 

READ MORE:

'Cruel, degrading' sex offender back in court: But released from charge due to dementia

Sadistic, depraved, cruel: Ronald Van Der Plaat's litany of 'bizarre' sexual abuse

Ronald Van Der Plaat, the man who raped and enslaved his daughter, to be released from prison

SEXUAL HARM - WHERE TO GET HELPIf it's an emergency and you feel that you or someone else is at risk, call 111.

If you've ever experienced sexual assault or abuse and need to talk to someone, contact Safe to Talk confidentially, any time 24/7:

• Call 0800 044 334
• Text 4334
• Email support@safetotalk.nz
• For more info or to web chat visit safetotalk.nz

Alternatively contact your local police station - click here for a list.

If you have been sexually assaulted, remember it's not your fault.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode of A Moment In Crime is a follow-up from the very first episode I produced about the Christchurch terror attack. 

As the Coronial inquest into the mass murder begins, it's important to remember what happened and who was responsible. It's important to remember who was killed, wounded and impacted. And it's important to understand the inquest. 

In this episode of A Moment In Crime you will hear from the judge who sentenced the terrorist in 2020 and from those closest to the attack - survivors, witnesses and those who lost loved ones that day.

Brenton Tarrant was the first person in New Zealand history to be jailed for life without parole and will spend the rest of his days in a prison cell - unable to hurt another person. 

The episode refers to an act of terrorism, mass murder and the wounding of many people. It is graphic in parts and is intended for a mature audience. 

Many people are against the name of the terrorist being published, but in this podcast episode he is named at times. His case was heard in an open court and is well known and I do not want to create any sense of drama around his abhorrent actions by painting him as a nameless villain. 

At the outset of this episode of A Moment In Crime I would like to acknowledge the 51 people who died in the Christchruch terror attack and their families - and those injured on that terrible day.

For more on the attack, the prosecution, sentencing and investigations visit nzherald.co.nz 

I also recommend reading these articles for a deeper understanding of the attack on March 15 and the aftermath. 

If you need support or help please reach out to one of the following services for advice: 

Lifeline 

Depression helpline

Youthline 

What's Up

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A Moment In Crime - The Patron - looks back at the life and crimes of disgraced knight and serial sex attacker James Hay Wallace.

Behind his money, philanthropy and resplendence, Wallace was a serial sex offender who lured men to his mansion on the premise of discussing funding proposals or helping with projects or careers and abused them when they least expected it. 

Wallace’s case took years to resolve with multiple trial dates - one delayed, one aborted and the case then moved to the High Court at Auckland.

After he was sentenced he continued to fight to clear his name, mounting various appeals to keep his identity suppressed and himself out of prison.

A Moment In Crime - The Patron tells the story of Wallace’s life, crimes, court case and the impact it had on the victims and wider community across three episodes.

This episode looks at the victims experiences of the abuse and court, and the aftermath for the arts community. 

Part One and Part Two are also live if you have yet to listen to those. 

Thanks to the NZ Herald senior journalist Sam Hurley for his contributions to this episode. 

For more on the case visit nzherald.co.nz or click:

SEXUAL HARM - DO YOU NEED HELP?

If you've ever experienced sexual assault or abuse and need to talk to someone, contact Safe to Talk confidentially, any time 24/7:

Alternatively contact your local police station click here for a list.

If you have been sexually assaulted, remember it's not your fault.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A Moment In Crime - The Patron - looks back at the life and crimes of disgraced knight and serial sex attacker James Hay Wallace.

Behind his money, philanthropy and resplendence, Wallace was a serial sex offender who lured men to his mansion on the premise of discussing funding proposals or helping with projects or careers and abused them when they least expected it. 

Wallace’s case took years to resolve with multiple trial dates - one delayed, one aborted and the case then moved to the High Court at Auckland.

After he was sentenced he continued to fight to clear his name, mounting various appeals to keep his identity suppressed and himself out of prison.

A Moment In Crime - The Patron tells the story of Wallace’s life, crimes, court case and the impact it had on the victims and wider community across three episodes.

This episode looks at how the chaotic court cases unfolded, and the lengthy battle between media and Wallace's legal team to get him named.

Part one is live and part three will be out next week.

Thanks to the NZ Herald senior journalist Sam Hurley for his contributions to this episode. 

For more on the case visit nzherald.co.nz or click:

SEXUAL HARM - DO YOU NEED HELP?

If you've ever experienced sexual assault or abuse and need to talk to someone, contact Safe to Talk confidentially, any time 24/7:

Alternatively contact your local police station click here for a list.

If you have been sexually assaulted, remember it's not your fault.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A Moment In Crime is presenting a three part episode - The Patron - which looks back at the life and crimes of disgraced knight and serial sex attacker James Hay Wallace.

Until his spectacular fall from grace, the Auckland rich lister was considered one of the biggest supporters of New Zealand film and art.

Wallace was respected, revered and his help, guidance and money was sought after by many in the arts world.

But behind the money and resplendence, Wallace was a serial sex offender who lured men to his mansion on the premise of discussing funding proposals or helping with projects or careers and abused them when they least expected it. 

Wallace’s case took years to resolve with multiple trial dates - one delayed, one aborted and the case then moved to the High Court at Auckland.

A Moment In Crime - The Patron tells the story of Wallace’s life, crimes, court case and the impact it had on the victims and wider community across three episodes. 

Thanks to NZ Herald' senior journalist Sam Hurley for his contributions to this episode.

For more on the case visit nzherald.co.nz or click:

SEXUAL HARM - DO YOU NEED HELP?

If you've ever experienced sexual assault or abuse and need to talk to someone, contact Safe to Talk confidentially, any time 24/7:

Alternatively contact your local police station click here for a list.

If you have been sexually assaulted, remember it's not your fault.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In September 2021, Lauren Dickason killed her three daughters, six year old Liane, and two year old twins Maya and Karla, shortly after the family moved to Timaru from South Africa.

For the last five weeks, Anna has been covering the trial, which this week saw a guilty verdict delivered on all three charges. As the trial has taken up a lot of Anna's time, there's no new episode of A Moment in Crime this month, but listen as she talks to The Front Page's Damien Venuto about the case. 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In 2011 an incomplete skeleton was found at a derelict property in Auckland by a demolition crew tasked with dismantling the buildings on site. 

It took police months to work out who the remains belonged to - and then they had to work out who had killed the young man, and why. 

In this episode of A Moment In Crime, journalist and host Anna Leask looks back at the grisly case and how the police finally got the man responsible. 

For more on this case click the links below.

Dead man's last months with 'goth' mates

Police say defendant posed as dead man

Javed Mills manslaughter - 'frustrated' killer denied parole

A Moment In Crimeis an NZME podcast produced monthly by Leask, who has been a specialist crime and justice reporter for almost two decades. 

This episode was written and produced by Anna Leask and edited by NZME audio engineer James Irwin and NZME podcast production manager Ethan Sills. 

If there is a case you would like Leask to consider covering please email anna.leask@nzme.co.nz

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On May 5 2007 Lipine Sila murdered Hannah Rossiter and Jane Young and caused grievous bodily harm to eight other teens when he drove his car through a crowd outside a party in the Christchurch suburb of Edgeware. 

The collision took place after Sila and his brother had been involved in fights at the gathering.

Sila claimed he was scared for his life and was trying to get away from people attacking him - and that he never meant to harm any of the victims.

However a jury found him guilty of murder and in 2008 he was jailed for life with a minimum non-parole period of 17 years. 

The murders were like nothing seen in New Zealand before. They impacted many in Christchurch - from the family and friends of the dead girls to their schoolmates and community, the wider city and the country. 

There was anger towards Sila, toward those who organised the party - which had been widely shared and discussed on social media in the week leading up to it - and police for their response when it was clear it was about to go haywire.

In this episode of A Moment In Crime senior journalist Anna Leask revisit the Edgeware Road murders - taking you inside the tragic party, the police handling of it and the trial and sentencing of one of the country's most notorious double murderers.

For more on the murders and aftermath visit nzherald.co.nz or click on the links below.

Brother admits 'I lost the plot' on night of deaths

Edgeware Road murder trial evidence ends

Murderer Sila convicted of prison assault

Review clears police over Edgeware Rd

A Moment In Crimeis an NZME podcast produced monthly by Leask, who has been a specialist crime and justice reporter for almost two decades. 

This episode was written and produced by Anna Leask and edited by NZME audio engineer James Irwin.

If there is a case you would like Leask to consider covering please email anna.leask@nzme.co.nz

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In January 2008 Scottish woman Karen Aim was beaten to death while she was visiting Taupō on a trip around New Zealand.

The 26-year-old was murdered in the street by a local teenager who had been vandalising a nearby school with a baseball bat.

He then used the weapon to murder the innocent woman.

Jahche Broughton was jailed for life and has been denied parole a number of times. 

In this episode of A Moment In Crime host and senior journalist Anna Leask goes back to the day Karen died, speaking to the person who found her and raising the alarm.

You'll also hear in-depth coverage of the court case and parole hearings of Karen's teen killer. 

A woman attacked by Broughton a week before the murder also spoke to Leask.

This episode outlines violent and sexual offending and is suitable for a mature audience. 

For more on Karen's case and the prosecution of Jahche Broughton - visit nzherald.co.nz or click the links below.

Teen killer Jahche Broughton gives new insight into brutal murder of Scottish tourist Karen Aim

Backpacker murder: Karen Aim's killer Jahche Broughton declined parole

Coroner's inquest into Karen Aim death

Out of the darkness

The podcast is produced by Leask iHeart radio podcast producer James Irwin and NZ Herald podcast production manager Ethan Sills.

Episodes of a Moment In Crime are released monthly on nzherald.co.nz, iheart radio and all your usual podcast apps.  

And if you love this podcast, you might enjoy another series Leask wrote and produced - Chasing Ghosts - which focuses on the disappearance of Southland toddler Amber-Lee Cruickshank.

If you have a crime or case you’d like us to consider covering, email anna.leask@nzme.co.nz 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

March 30 marks the 20th anniversary of Waikato mother-of-three Sara Niethe's disappearance.

Her body has never been found despite her boyfriend Mark Pakenham admitting he killed her.

Pakenham was charged with her murder in 2011 but before his case went to trial he pleaded guilty to a reduced charge of manslaughter.

He has always refused to tell police where Niethe’s body is, but admitted he injected Niethe with methamphetamine on March 30, 2003, causing her death.

Twenty years on from Sara's death her children - now all adults with their own families -have commissioned a new search and hope that finally, they can find the answers and evidence they have always longed for. 

If you can help find Sara or have any information about her death email anna.leask@nzme.co.nzor private investigator Bruce Currie bruce@mrtracer.co.nz

You can also contact the police on non-emergency phone number 105 or the anonymous crime reporting line Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. 

For more on Sara's case click on the links below:

Cold-case killing: Shock guilty plea

Sara Niethe killer's long history of drugs, threats

Cold-case killer Mark Pakenham released on parole

Sara Niethe cold case: New search under way for body of Waikato mum killed with a ‘shot of meth’

FAMILY VIOLENCE - DO YOU NEED HELP?

If you're in danger now:

• Phone the police on 111 or ask neighbours of friends to ring for you.
• Run outside and head for where there are other people.
• Scream for help so that your neighbours can hear you.
• Take the children with you.
• Don't stop to get anything else.
• If you are being abused, remember it's not your fault. Violence is never okay

Where to go for help or more information:

• Shine, free national helpline 9am- 11pm every day - 0508 744 633 www.2shine.org.nz
• Women's Refuge: Free national crisis line operates 24/7 - 0800 refuge or 0800 733 843 www.womensrefuge.org.nz
• Shakti: Providing specialist cultural services for African, Asian and middle eastern women and their children. Crisis line 24/7 0800 742 584
• It's Not Ok: Information line 0800 456 450 www.areyouok.org.nz

CREDITS:

A Moment In Crime is an NZME podcast written and hosted by Anna Leask, senior crime and justice reporter for the New Zealand Herald. 

The podcast is produced by myself, iHeart radio podcast producer James Irwin and NZ Herald podcast production manager Ethan Sills.

Episodes of a Moment In Crime are released monthly on nzherald.co.nz, iheart radio and all your usual podcast apps.  

And if you love this podcast, you might enjoy another series I wrote and produced - Chasing Ghosts - which focuses on the disappearance of Southland toddler Amber-Lee Cruickshank.

If you have a crime or case you’d like me to consider covering, email anna.leask@nzme.co.nz  

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Warning: this episode contains graphic descriptions of murder and the disposal of a body and is suitable for a mature audience only. 

In 2010 Auckland woman Carmen Thomas was reported missing by her ex-partner Brad Callaghan. He told police she had failed to pick up their little boy as per their shared custody arrangement and he was worried. Police launched an investigation but there was no sign of Carmen. Three months later Callaghan was arrested and the brutal and macabre details of Carmen's murder and his attempts to avoid being caught came to light. The case is one of New Zealand's most high-profile murder investigations and in this episode of A Moment In Crime senior journalist Anna Leask goes back through the timeline of tragedy. 

This episode includes short extracts from the television show Forensics - a prime-time documentary ‘crime’ series that aired in New Zealand in 2017. The show was produced by South Pacific Pictures.

To read more about Carmen Thomas, click on the links to stories published in the NZ Herald, Weekend Herald and Herald on Sunday below.

If there is a case you want to hear about on A Moment In Crime, please email host and producer Anna Leask anna.leask@nzme.co.nz 

https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/cctv-footage-clue-in-carmen-inquiry/E7DU36D5GJHTLU2SJOYLFQR5VE/

https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/carmen-thomas-murder-brad-callaghan-hid-his-dark-secret-behind-sinister-mask-of-deception/ST6ZX3NHVSMKWNKDJUFWGT5K7E/

https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/revealed-how-science-caught-carmen-thomas-killer/E5S5N2Y2VS5BHLEH4U3MOYZAGQ/

https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/parenting-the-parentless-raising-the-children-of-family-violence-murders-in-new-zealand/FEPWLQBXEBDENEK65VJCQODXYA/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Police figures show between mid-2012 and 2022, about 280 people were convicted of murder in Aotearoa.

Of those, 9.5 per cent of offenders - 26 in total - were women.A further 47 women were convicted of manslaughter, 27 per cent of the 271 total offenders in that category.

n the latest episode of A Moment In Crime senior crime and justice reporter Anna Leask looks back at some of New Zealand’s most shocking cases of murder, manslaughter and even some mercy killings carried out by women.

This episode of A Moment In Crime references violence towards a child domestic violence - if you need help, or have concerns about someone else, please scroll down for a list of crisis and support agencies.

READ MORE:click here for Anna Leask's coverage on women who kill

DO YOU NEED HELP?

Child abuse

If you are worried about a child or have information about any young person being abused, please contact the police.

Information can be passed on to your local police or anonymously through the Crimestoppers reporting line on 0800 555 111.

If you’re worried about a child you are urged to contact Oranga Tamariki immediately on 0508 326 459; or email contact@mvcot.govt.nz.

If the child or young person is in immediate danger, call police on 111.

Family violence

If you’re in danger now:

• Phone the police on 111 or ask neighbours of friends to ring for you.
• Run outside and head for where there are other people.
• Scream for help so that your neighbours can hear you.
• Take the children with you.
• Don’t stop to get anything else.

If you are being abused, remember it’s not your fault. Violence is never okay.

Where to go for help or more information:

• Shine, free national helpline available 24/7 - 0508 744 633 www.2shine.org.nz
• Women’s Refuge: Free national crisis line operates 24/7 - 0800 refuge or 0800 733 843 www.womensrefuge.org.nz
• Shakti: Providing specialist cultural services for African, Asian and middle eastern women and their children. Crisis line 24/7 0800 742 584
• It’s Not Ok: Information line 0800 456 450 www.areyouok.org.nz

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For nearly eight years Auckland woman Pakeeza Yusuf and her 3-yeard-old daughter, Juwairiyah “Jojo” Kalim, lay covered by stone and mud on Auckland’s North Shore.

They were murdered as they slept in late 2006 but for many years nobody knew about their grisly fate. A decade later in 2016, Kamal Gyanendra Reddy was found guilty of their murder by a jury.

A six-month undercover police operation drew a confession from him on October 14, 2014, where he admitted to strangling Pakeeza with the cord of an electric iron, and smothering Jojo to cover up his ghastly offending.

This episode of A Moment In Crime references violence towards a child domestic violence - if you need help, or have concerns about someone else, please scroll down for a list of crisis and support agencies.

READ MORE:

Bodies-under-the-bridge murders: Kamal Reddy found guilty

Bodies-under-the-bridge murders: Kamal Reddy jailed for at least 21 years

Undercover police operation to catch double murderer Kamal Reddy revealed

WHERE TO GET HELP?

Child abuse:

If you are worried about a child or have information about about any young person being abused, please contact the police.

Information can be passed on to your local police - <a href=’https://www.police.govt.nz/contact-us/stations/a2z’ target=’_blank’>click here for a list of stations and contact details</a> - or anonymously through the Crimestoppers reporting line on 0800 555 111.

If you’re worried about a child you are urged to contact Oranga Tamariki immediately on 0508 326 459; or email contact@mvcot.govt.nz.

If the child or young person is in immediate danger, call police on 111.

Family violence:

If you’re in danger now phone the police on 111 or ask neighbours or friends to ring for you.

Where to go for help or more information:

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In September 2008 New Zealanders were shocked by the killing of a man who stepped in to help a woman in danger in central Auckland.

Austin Hemmings, 44, was fatally stabbed when he intervened in a confrontation as he left work. 

The good Samaritan was simply trying to help a woman who was in clear distress and who had called out for help after a man confronted her and threatened her. 

Pauesi Leofa Brown stabbed Hemmings in the chest and the father-of-three died soon after.

Brown was later sentenced to life in prison for Hemmings' murder. 

Today in Herald podcast A Moment In Crime host and journalist Anna Leask looks back at the case and how it impacted both Hemmings' family and the woman he saved - paying the ultimate price with his own life. 

A Moment In Crime is written and hosted by senior journalist Anna Leask - who has been covering crime and justice for NZME since 2005.

Leask has also reported on most of the major incidents and events in New Zealand during that period including the Christchurch quakes, Pike River mine disaster, March 15 terror attack and the White Island eruption.

"Each month I'll take you inside some of our most infamous incidents, notorious offenders and behind the scenes of high-profile trials and events to show you what's really happening in your backyard," she said.

"Heroes and villains battle for justice to be done, and it seems no matter how horrifying the story, we always want to know more."

A Moment In Crime is produced by Leask, iHeart radio podcast producer Adam Pomana, and NZ Herald podcast production manager Ethan Sills.

Episodes of a Moment In Crime are usually released monthly.

If there is a case you would like to hear about on A Moment In Crime, email anna.leask@nzme.co.nz

READ MORE ON THE AUSTIN HEMMINGS CASE

Hemmings family 'torn to shreds'

Hemmings' murderer jailed for at least 16 years

Hemmings' murderer had killed before

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Christchurch caregiver Valerie May Heaney, 64, was found dead in the hallway of her Bromley home on April 4 2022. 

Initially, police said her death was unexplained but after a post-mortem examination, it became clear something violent and horrific had happened to Val. 

Elliot Ajay Prakash, 43, was later charged with her murder.

He was a boarder at Heaney's home and the pair were sometimes lovers.

In this episode of A Moment In Crime I'll tell you why - and how - Prakash killed Val, and what he told police.

This episode is about domestic violence and may be upsetting for some people. 

READ MORE ON THIS CASE:

Val Heaney murder: Man who battered landlord with hockey stick jailed for life, previous violence revealed

Family violence - do you need help?

If you're in danger now:

• Phone the police on 111 or ask neighbours of friends to ring for you.
• Run outside and head for where there are other people.
• Scream for help so that your neighbours can hear you.
• Take the children with you.
• Don't stop to get anything else.
• If you are being abused, remember it's not your fault. Violence is never okay

Where to go for help or more information:

• Shine, free national helpline - 0508 744 633 www.2shine.org.nz
• Women's Refuge: Free national crisis line operates 24/7 - 0800 refuge or 0800 733 843 www.womensrefuge.org.nz
• Shakti: Providing specialist cultural services for African, Asian and middle eastern women and their children. Crisis line 24/7 0800 742 584
• It's Not Ok: Information line 0800 456 450 www.areyouok.org.nz

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When Phillip John Smith left a Waikato prison on approved temporary leave in 2014 no one suspected that within days he would be leading authorities on an international man hunt.

Smith, also known as Phillip John Traynor, was meant to spend his time outside the wire at an address in Auckland with a sponsor.

The leave was part of a plan to reintegrate the convicted killer and sex offender back into the community.

But instead of going to the address in Auckland he made his way to the airport and boarded a plane to South America.

Smith's plan was to never return to New Zealand. 

However a chance sighting lead authorities right to him at a backpackers in Brazil.

Smith  was jailed for life for murdering the father of a young boy he'd been convicted of sexually abusing.

So how did he get a passport?

How did he get past border authorities?

And how was he captured in the heart of one of the busiest cities in the world?

Herald podcast A Moment In Crime goes back to Smith's escape and explains just how police tracked him down and hauled him back to New Zealand. 

READ MORE HERE:

Phillip Smith's long history of terrifying and abusive behaviour

Great Escape: How a murderer almost got away

SEXUAL HARM - DO YOU NEED HELP?

If it's an emergency and you feel that you or someone else is at risk, call 111.​

If you've ever experienced sexual assault or abuse and need to talk to someone contact the Safe to Talk confidential crisis helpline on: 

Text 4334 and they will respond 

Email support@safetotalk.nz

Visit https://safetotalk.nz/contact-us/ for an online chat 

Alternatively contact your local police station - <a href='http://www.police.govt.nz/contact-us/stations/a2z' target='_blank'>click here for a list.</a>

If you have been abused, remember it's not your fault.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The 1998 murder of the Ashburton schoolgirl remains one of New Zealand's most high-profile cold cases.

Kirsty disappeared on December 31, 1998, while walking the family dog Abby on the banks of the Ashburton River.

The day after Kirsty went missing, the family's dog Abby was found tied to a tree near the river, and the teen's underwear was nearby.

Her body was found two weeks later, hidden in dense scrub almost 50km away. 

To date, no one has been arrested for her murder and police recently announced a $100,000 reward for information leading to the capture of her killer - or killers.

DO YOU HAVE INFORMATION ABOUT THE KIRSTY BENTLEY CASE? 

Anyone with information is asked to contact Police via their non-emergency phone number 105 and reference Operation Kirsty. Alternatively, you can call Crime Stoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

READ MORE ON THIS CASE IN THE HERALD:

Kirsty Bentley murder: Police offer $100,000 reward in Ashburton cold case

Kirsty Bentley cold case: Police focus on stranger abduction lead

Kirsty Bentley murder cold case: Killer may have already been spoken to by police

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In 2013 Auckland couple Glenys Stanton and Trevor Waite were gunned down in bed together at his home in Opaheke south of the city. 

Their killer was John Mowatt, an ex of Stanton who spiralled out of control when she ended their relationship.

Mowatt killed himself at Woodhill Forest north of Auckland days after the double murder.

The crime, later dubbed 'the bedroom murders' shocked the country.

If there is a case you want to hear more about email anna.leask@nzme.co.nz

READ MORE ON THE CASE HERE:

The Bedroom Murders: 29 shots, 3 people dead. Why?

Bedroom murders: Tale of love and death

DO YOU NEED HELP?

If it is an emergency and you or someone else is at risk, call 111.

For counselling and support:

Lifeline: http://www.lifeline.co.nz, call0800 543 354 or text 4357 (HELP)

Suicide Crisis Helpline: www.lifeline.org.nz/services/suicide-crisis-helpline, or call 0508 828 865 (0508 TAUTOKO)

For more information and support, talk to your local doctor, hauora, community mental health team, or counselling service.

The Mental Health Foundation has more helplines and service contacts -click here for information

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In October 1985 Arthur Easton was murdered in his Papakura family home.

Easton and his two teenage sons were attacked by a bayonet-wielding home invader.

The 52-year-old postal worker was stabbed in his liver during the frenzied attack and died of blood loss after emergency services arrived on the scene.

Alan Hall was convicted of murder in 1986 and spent 19 years in prison for the crime.

However Hall was not the person who killed Easton.

He maintained his innocence for almost four decades and in 2022 the Supreme Court finally quashed his conviction for murder.

The Crown accepted earlier this year in a submission to the Court that key evidence leading to the identity of the true attacker was "materially" altered, leading to a miscarriage of justice.

Today Herald senior journalist Anna Leask revisits the murder of Arthur Easton and the journey to justice for Alan Hall. 

This episode of A Moment In Crime is a bonus episode.

While our usual monthly episodes look at cases that have gripped New Zealand's interest over the years, there are plenty of cases before the courts that I'm covering right now that warrant a deeper look.

From complex murder trials to the cases destined for infamy, these bonus episodes will show you what's really happening in your backyard - right now.

For more on the case visit:

Alan Hall: Murder conviction set to be quashed after decades, Crown acknowledges miscarriage of justice

Alan Hall's murder conviction officially quashed, compensation claim on the cards

Solicitor-General admits Alan Hall case 'significant miscarriage of justice', opens investigation into Crown conduct

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode contains strong language.

In 2001 Bruce Thomas Howse murdered his stepdaughters Olympia Jetson and Saliel Aplin as they lay in their beds at their Masterton home.

The girls - aged just 11 and 12 - had suffered years of physical and sexual abuse at the hands of Howse and despite their cries for help, it never came.

Today A Moment In Crime is about the tragic deaths of the young sisters and the impact on their family, particularly their older sister Alicia. 

This episode of A Moment In Crime deals with child abuse, sexual assault and murder and may not be suitable for some listeners.

If you need help or you are worried about someone else - see below for a list of help and support agencies.

For more on this case:

Sister of murdered Masterton siblings speaks out about abuse, violence and murder

Killer's ex tells of fight to keep children safe

Reports into girls' deaths find fault with CYF

Are you worried about the safety of a child?

If you have concerns about the immediate safety of a child, call 111.

Alternative call the police non-emergency reporting line on 105.

Or, contact Oranga Tamariki, Ministry for Children on 0508 326 459 for advice or click here to visit the agency's website for more information.

Sexual harm - do you need help?

If it's an emergency and you feel that you or someone else is at risk, call 111.​

If you've ever experienced sexual assault or abuse and need to talk to someone contact the Safe to Talk confidential crisis helpline:

Text: 4334

Email: support@safetotalk.nz

Visit https://safetotalk.nz/contact-us/ for an online chat

Domestic violence and abuse - do you need help?

If you're in danger now - phone the police on 111 or ask neighbours of friends to ring for you.

Where to go for help or more information:

Shine: Free national helpline available 24/7 -  0508 744 633 www.2shine.org.nz

Women's Refuge: Free national crisis line operates 24/7 - 0800 refuge or 0800 733 843 www.womensrefuge.org.nz

Shakti: Providing specialist cultural services for African, Asian and middle eastern women and their children. Crisis line 24/7 0800 742 584 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In January 2020 Rena Joyce walked into a Christchurch police station and made a startling confession. 

She told officers she had killed her partner Martin Berry and that his body was buried in the compost heap at his home. 

Following a trial in March 2022 Joyce - who had previous convictions for assaulting her partner - was found guilty of murdering Berry and in May she was sentenced to life in prison. 

In this bonus episode of A Moment In Crime, Herald senior journalist Anna Leask goes inside the trial - and the sentencing. 

For more on this case visit:

Rena Joyce sentenced to life in prison for murdering partner, dumping body in compost

Murdered and buried in his own garden - family speak about 'horrendous' death of Christchurch victim Martin Berry

Do you need help or advice around domestic violence:

If you are being abused, remember it's not your fault. Violence is never okay

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In 2007 Christchurch woman Emma Louise Agnew was found dead - murdered by a man she met while trying to sell her car.

The 20-year-old was reported missing on November 15 and her body was found 12 days later, hidden beneath vegetation and pine needles near a holiday park in the north of the city.

Emma's death was shocking and tragic - but when details emerged of what happened to her and who was responsible, there was outrage. 

Liam James Reid was arrested the day after Emma was found and charged with rape and murder.

By the time he went on trial in 2008 he had also been charged with the rape, attempted murder and robbery of a 21-year-old student in Dunedin nine days after Emma was killed. 

In this episode of A Moment In Crime host Anna Leask delves into Reid's horrendous offending and the impact it has had over the years.

For more on Reid's life of crime click the link below or visit nzherald.co.nz

The Big Read: Rapist, murderer Liam Reid hopeful of new appeal

SEXUAL HARM - DO YOU NEED HELP? If it's an emergency and you feel that you or someone else is at risk, call 111.​

If you've ever experienced sexual assault or abuse and need to talk to someone contact the Safe to Talk confidential crisis helpline on:

Text 4334 and they will respond
Email support@safetotalk.nz
Visit https://safetotalk.nz/contact-us/ for an online chat

Alternatively, contact your local police station. If you have been abused, remember it's not your fault.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In 1992 Susan Burdett was found dead in her South Auckland home.

The 39-year-old had been sexually assaulted and beaten to death with a baseball bat she kept by her bed for protection. 

Susan's story was awful and tragic but would become much more so when the wrong man was convicted of her murder and jailed for more than 20 years.

In this month's episode of Herald podcast A Moment In Crime senior journalist Anna Leask looks into the death of Susan Burdett and the botched police investigation that led to Teina Pora being arrested and charged a year later. 

Pora, a 17-year-old petty criminal, confessed to the murder after hearing about a significant reward offered by police for information that would lead to the killer being identified. 

But there was no other evidence linking Pora to the scene and his confession was jumbled, vague and changed by the minute. 

Two juries went on to convict Pora before an ex-detective got involved and fought for him to be freed. 

It was not until after the Privy Council quashed Pora's convictions that the real killer - serial rapist Malcolm Rewa  - was held to account.

FOR MORE ON THE CASE VISIT NZHERALD.CO.NZ OR CLICK ON THE LINKS BELOW TO ACCESS CONTENT:

https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/how-the-justice-system-failed-teina-pora/W4VPIZR6JDHMU4VHY7PLEBZCEI/Judge:

https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/judge-teina-pora-innocent-entire-crown-case-rejected/B7LVXQK7FNRUVSKLP2L6AKKIGM/

https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/serial-rapist-malcolm-rewa-jailed-for-life-for-1992-murder-of-susan-burdett/TWJNAO25RH77V2M242XXYRS2MA/?c_id=1&objectid=12216145

https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/malcolm-rewa-survivors-heartbreaking-letter-i-thought-he-would-kill-me/PCCLD3DA4BFAAWCRTB4DJ7MTUA/?c_id=1&objectid=12206068

https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/serial-rapist-malcolm-rewa-guilty-of-murdering-susan-burdett-in-1992/UCRYHDRG3ROT6YWRECKSORC4IM/?c_id=1&objectid=12205665

https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/i-hope-to-get-justice-for-my-sister-susan-burdetts-brother-on-teina-pora-decision/HYXO4ZMD7XXL7XM7KPZBIQVONA/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In September 2003 Helen Meads was gunned down at her Matamata home by her husband Greg. 

She was shot at close range, her body found soon after by police in the stables at the property she shared with her racehorse breeder husband Greg Meads. 

Meads was charged with Helen's murder and it later emerged that their marriage had been rife with domestic violence and the last fatal assault came after she announced she was leaving. 

Meads denied that he meant to kill Helen.

While he admitted to shooting her, he claimed it was an accident - that he went to confront her about why she was leaving him, that he took the loaded gun, that it went off by mistake.

But after a high-profile High Court trial Meads was found guilty of Helen's murder.

He was jailed for life and ordered to serve a minimum of 11 years before he could apply for parole.

In today's episode of Herald podcast A Moment In Crime, senior journalist Anna Leask revisits Helen Meads' life, death and legacy. 

In this episode you will hear about the marriage marred by abuse, violence and control; Helen's last days and the harrowing ordeal her parents endured after she died. 

READ MORE: https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/it-was-a-deliberate-act-i-killed-helen-after-13-years-of-untruths-and-lies-matamata-horse-breeder-admits-murdering-wife/T2AJE2JUV5V76QHRODR2234MOA/

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE - DO YOU NEED HELP?

If you're in danger now:

&bull; Phone the police on 111 or ask neighbours of friends to ring for you.
&bull; Run outside and head for where there are other people.
&bull; Scream for help so that your neighbours can hear you.
&bull; Take the children with you.
&bull; Don't stop to get anything else.
&bull; If you are being abused, remember it's not your fault. Violence is never okay

Where to go for help or more information:

&bull; Shine, free national helpline 9am- 11pm every day - 0508 744 633 www.2shine.org.nz 
&bull; Women's Refuge: Free national crisis line operates 24/7 - 0800 refuge or 0800 733 843 www.womensrefuge.org.nz 
&bull; Shakti: Providing specialist cultural services for African, Asian and middle eastern women and their children. Crisis line 24/7 0800 742 584 
&bull; It's Not Ok: Information line 0800 456 450 www.areyouok.org.nz

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.