From NZPA:
Bailed white supremacist on thin ice with judge
Friday, 30 May 2008A Petone man involved in a white supremacist kidnapping of a Canadian Indian has been remanded on bail after failing to attend community probation and making a “mockery” of the court.
Benjamin McPadden, an apprentice landscaper, appeared in the Wellington High Court today for sentence review.
McPadden was one of three men found guilty of kidnapping tourist Jeremie Kawerninski in April last year.
A fourth man was discharged on the penultimate day of the trial due to lack of evidence.
Defence lawyer Ian Hard said McPadden had been subject to intimidation and death threats during the 35 hours he completed at community probation.
Mr Hard said attempts to inform probation staff of the problem “had fallen on deaf ears”.
McPadden did not complete the remaining 215 hours out of fear, he said.
Crown prosecutor Grant Burston did not oppose bail.
Justice Ronald Young said he had to seriously consider whether bail was appropriate.
McPadden’s sentence had been “a real indulgence from the court” and “35 hours since August last year was making a mockery of what was a very generous sentence,” Justice Young said.
“You can look as sad as you want now but you’re in real danger of going to prison.
“You’re a fool to have done that and it’s as simple as that,” he said.
McPadden was remanded on bail until Friday June 6.
