'Dr Leighley' case: Accused says remand conditions hinder trial preparation

A murder accused awaiting trial has complained to the High Court that conditions at the Natabua Remand Centre are limiting his ability to prepare his defence.

Appearing before Justice Sunil Sharma in the High Court in Lautoka yesterday, Peceli Rokoravolo, who represented himself, cited restricted access to legal documents and writing materials.

He claimed the conditions had hindered his ability to prepare for his upcoming trial.

Rokoravolo is charged in relation to the alleged murder of Dr Biumaitotoya, also known as Leighley Darling, between August 31 and September 1, 2025.

During a hearing on his bail application, the State, represented by Emi Cabemaiwai, sought 14 days to file its response.

Objecting to the request, Rokoravolo argued that the prosecution had already been given sufficient time and that further delays would affect his ability to prepare for trial, which is scheduled to begin on July 6.

“The State has everything, including resources, but they said they wanted 14 more days,” he said.

“I have been remanded for a long time.”

Rokoravolo claimed remand conditions made it difficult for inmates to prepare legal matters, alleging restricted access to legal documents, pens and paper.

He told the court he received his disclosure documents only on the morning of the hearing and had been unable to properly review them or make notes.

He also claimed inmates were generally not permitted to possess writing materials inside the remand facility and were given limited opportunities to write while in court holding cells.

Justice Sharma acknowledged the concerns and advised Rokoravolo to make requests through officers in charge.

Rokoravolo responded by alleging that he had previously experienced difficulties when attempting to rely on a court order relating to access to legal materials.

Commending his courtroom submissions, Justice Sharma said he initially thought Rokoravolo was a law student.

“You have done very well,” Justice Sharma said.

Given the upcoming trial date, Justice Sharma urged the prosecution to reduce its requested response period from 14 days to seven days to allow the matter to progress more efficiently.

Rokoravolo also told the court he had not received personal belongings, including clothing, since being remanded late last year and had been relying on fellow inmates for necessities.

The prosecution said it had not yet received a response from the investigating officer regarding the concerns raised about Rokoravolo’s belongings.

The matter was adjourned.