Further report for murder accused

A second psychiatric assessment will be carried out to determine the health of the 64-year-old Tauranga builder accused of the murder of his wife in Judea last month.

Rex Leverett John Prole appeared in Tauranga District Court today where Judge Paul Geoghegan remanded him in custody pending the results of a psychiatric assessment.

Rex Leverett John Prole tries to avoid having his photograph taken in Tauranga District Court.

Prole is charged with the murder of 57-year-old Robyn Prole, also known as Robyn Phipps, whose body was found lying on a driveway of a Bell Street property on July 20.

A post-mortem result showed Robyn died of stab wounds.

Prole’s lawyer Glenn Dixon opposed a media request to take an in-court photograph of his client, arguing Prole’s mental health was still in question, but the request was granted due to public interest.

Prole attempted to hide from photographers while in the dock.

In court Prole’s lawyer stated he is not satisfied with the current psychiatric report stating that it fails to ascertain whether Prole is fit to enter a plea or stand trial on the charge.

Judge Geoghegan agreed to a second assessment due to the serious nature of the charge.

“I appreciate that given the seriousness of this charge you want to have a definitive answer.”

Prole was remanded in custody to reappear on September 3.