Family fears drive knife carrier

A former murder-accused says he carried a knife because he feared people would come after his family.

William Hartley appeared in the Palmerston North District Court for sentence on possessing a knife in public and dangerous driving. Hartley is no stranger to court, having faced trial last year as one of five men accused of being involved in the death of James Poto Whatuira.

Hartley was tried alongside Daniel Rei, Troy Marcus Simmonds, Scott Gareth Simmonds and Michael Bob Fiti in relation to Whatuira’s death in Woodville on January 4 2015. Hartley was found not guilty. At his appearance in court on Thursday, Hartley said his life had turned around since the trial. Hartley admitted carrying a knife – after previously pleading not guilty – saying he had one on him for protection from unnamed aggressors.

‘‘I live in constant fear of my family being targeted by these people.’’

Judge Jim Large asked Hartley if that was why he carried a knife, to which he nodded yes. ‘‘I don’t carry it now and I feel very vulnerable to be honest.’’

Hartley said he was not sure if he would have actually used the weapon in a confrontation.

The judge was not convinced and said it was human nature to use a weapon when threatened. ‘‘That is how people get killed,’’ the judge said.

Hartley attempted to explain his situation to the judge. ‘‘We were threatened with firearms. I don’t know what to say.’’

Hartley had previously been found guilty of dangerous driving.

However, the judge scolded Hartley for not being in touch with probation officers and bailed him to appear again in May.