Source: Radio New Zealand
Police said they hope the arrest would reassure Sharlene’s family and the community. RNZ / Cole Eastham-Farrelly
Two Napier men have been charged in connection with the homicide of Sharlene Smith whose body was found on a worksite in Omahu.
64-year-old Smith was earlier identified by police as a ‘much-loved mother, grandmother and sister’ from Rotorua.
Smith’s body was found at a property on Taihape Road in Omahu, near Hastings, on 3 February.
A 47-year-old man has been arrested today and charged with murder and injuring with intent, and is expected to appear in Napier District Court tomorrow.
A 45-year-old man was arrested yesterday and charged with accessory after the fact to a culpable homicide.
He appeared in court today and is remanded to reappear in Napier on 4 March.
The 45-year-old man also faces three domestic-related charges unrelated to Smith’s death.
Police had also previously identified a a white 2005 Mazda 3 sports hatchback as being a vehicle of interest in the case.
Detective Inspector Martin James said he hopes the arrest would reassure Sharlene’s family and the community.
“It’s been 24 days since Sharlene’s body was found, and for our busy team to have achieved this result so promptly should reassure the community we take these significant incidents incredibly seriously.”
Detective Inspector James praised the work of the investigation team, and members of the community who have come forward with information such as CCTV footage.
“They have taken the time to trawl through video and then notify Police, and their efforts have helped immensely in getting these quick arrests.”
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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand
