Tensions boiled over at the Waitakere District Court today when a 19-year-old appeared charged with the murder and sexual violation of Cun Xiu Tian.
The teenager, who has name suppression, was arrested yesterday following the death of the 69-year-old woman last Friday.
Today he yelled and swore in the court, and those in the public gallery screamed abuse back at him.
The 69-year-old mother died from serious head injuries after she was viciously beaten in her West Auckland home.
Although the man accused of her murder only appeared in court for a short time, he acknowledged his mother, who was visibly distressed.
His outbursts angered many Te Atatu locals in the public gallery, one of whom called the man a "lowdown human being".
Police yesterday thanked local residents for their assistance with the investigation over the past week and Te Atatu people expressed relief at the arrest.
Community leaders are planning two public meetings for next week.
The accused will re-appear in the High Court next month.
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