Armed Intruder Poses as Witness, Robs Terminally Ill Man

A shocking incident occurred in Rotorua when an armed intruder, posing as a Jehovah’s Witness, robbed a terminally ill man. On November 14, 2023, the victim, suffering from a terminal heart condition, answered a knock at his door only to find himself facing a gun. The intruder, identified as Peter George Junior Laupama, demanded money and medication, leaving the victim terrified and vulnerable.

Upon entering the home, Laupama threatened the victim with a firearm, seizing a bag that contained his medication and $200 in cash. The intruder also attempted to abduct the victim, claiming he would make him work for $900 per week. Laupama instructed the victim to hand over his car keys and threatened physical violence if he did not comply. As the situation escalated, the victim managed to escape to a neighbor’s house, where he called the police.

Law enforcement was immediately alerted, and Laupama was seen driving away in the victim’s vehicle, which was later found abandoned nearby. The following day, the victim encountered Laupama again at a local bar, prompting him to contact the authorities once more. Laupama was arrested shortly after.

The case subsequently went to trial in the Rotorua District Court, where Judge Joanne Wickliffe presided over the proceedings. The victim’s identification of Laupama was deemed reliable, yet the judge concluded that Laupama did not intend to permanently deprive the victim of his vehicle. Judge Wickliffe noted, “On [the victim’s] own evidence, Mr. Laupama did not intend to permanently deprive him of that vehicle.”

Despite the serious nature of the crime, Laupama was acquitted of the aggravated robbery charge. The Crown subsequently appealed this decision, arguing that the judge had misinterpreted Laupama’s intent regarding the vehicle. The appeal highlighted that Laupama’s intention to return the car contingent upon compliance with his demands constituted an intent to deprive the victim of his property.

In her review, Justice Michele Wilkinson-Smith found that the original ruling overlooked the implications of conditional intent. She stated, “The offender has such intent in the event that the victim does not do as the offender says.” Justice Wilkinson-Smith concluded that the charge of aggravated robbery should be reconsidered and sent the case back to the District Court for further examination.

The implications of this case extend beyond the courtroom. The victim, who identified Laupama, passed away a month after the robbery, which adds a layer of complexity to the proceedings. The legal discussions surrounding this incident will continue when the case is recalled next month, as the court will determine if Laupama’s actions warrant charges of aggravated burglary instead.

The incident raises pressing questions about safety and the vulnerabilities faced by those with serious health conditions. As the legal battle unfolds, the community watches closely, hoping for justice in this troubling case.