The man on trial accused of killing Christchurch woman Yanfei Bao is now conducting his own defence.
Tingjun Cao is accused of murdering the 44-year-old real estate agent. He has denied the charge.
The trial at the High Court in Christchurch is now in its third week.
Justice Preston briefed the jury on the situation this morning, telling them Cao had chosen to waive his right to counsel.
“He is entitled to do that, Mr Cao wishes the trial to continue, and he wants to conduct his own defence from this point on. After hearing from Mr Cao himself and his previous counsel and also from counsel for the Crown I have decided it is in the interest of justice for the trial to continue on this basis.”
She explained to the jury that Cao’s previous counsel had now been appointed as standby counsel.
“What this means is that Mr Eason and Mr MacLeod are available to Mr Cao to assist him in conducting his defence,” she said.
She said they have several responsibilities now, including advising the defendant on the trial process and appropriate behaviour in court.
The trial continues today.
