Meth counts in wake of fatal shooting

AUCKLAND: A 61yearold woman is facing charges after allegedly supplying methamphetamine to a man fatally shot by police on State Highway 1 north of Auckland.

Jerrim Marshall Toms (29) died early on March 31 near Puhoi after he was shot multiple times by police.

They fired at Toms after he allegedly approached police with a machete.

He had earlier approached an officer with the same weapon before fleeing at high speed in his car, turning his headlights off at times.

After his death police said they believed drugs ‘‘may’’ have been a factor in Toms’ death.

It can now be revealed toxicology testing confirmed Toms had methamphetamine in his system when he died.

A source also said he had an amount of the drug with him at the time.

It can also be revealed a 61yearold woman has been charged with supplying drugs to Toms.

She is a friend of his family but her name cannot be published yet.

She is also facing a charge of possession of methamphetamine.

Police could not comment on the charges as the case was before the courts — and investigations into Toms’ death were ongoing.

Toms’ death is subject to investigations by police, the Coroner and the Independent Police Conduct Authority.

As part of the investigations, video footage of the fatal shooting is being reviewed.

Toms’ death — and the leadup to it — was filmed by the police Eagle helicopter and captured on various CCTV cameras in the area.

Toms’ sister, Natasha Toms, told RNZ that five weeks before the shooting, her brother had been admitted to hospital and treated for bipolar disorder.

Toms was due to appear in the Auckland District Court on charges of failing to stop for police and dangerous driving when he died.

Police withdrew the charges shortly after his death. — NZME