Solomone Taufeulungaki murder trial fast-tracked to Supreme Court

A man charged with murder following the violent affray that left 15-year-old Solomone Taufeulungaki dead will have his case fast-tracked to the Supreme Court.

Solomone Taufeulungaki from the go fund me page

A man accused of being involved in the gang killing of teenager Solomone Taufeulungaki has pleaded not guilty as his case was fast-tracked to the Supreme Court.

Taataa Tafa is one of 11 people who have been charged with murder following a violent affray that left 15-year-old Solomone stabbed to death in Deer Park on June 16.

Nine of the accused are children, aged 13 to 17.

Tafa, 20, from Sunshine, chose to fast-track his case to the higher court, a move introduced this year during the global pandemic to prevent further delays to the justice system.

Appearing via video link from Marngoneet jail on Wednesday, he said “not guilty” when asked how he pleaded to the three charges: murder, affray and violent disorder.

The memorial for, fatally stabbed teenager Solomone Taufeulungaki in Deer Park. Picture: Sarah Matray

Prosecutor Edwina Dane said discussions were on foot with the Supreme Court to determine how they would accommodate an 11-header homicide trial.

Ms Dane said the nine teen accused are due to face a children’s court on Tuesday, when it is likely they too would fast-track to the Supreme Court.

She said the fact two of the accused were only 13 years old meant the case would take priority.

“Every effort is being made … to progress this matter as promptly as possible,” she said.

A second adult accused, Soreysa Jibrael, 23, from Hoppers Crossing, also appeared from Fulham prison, with his lawyer indicating they expected to take the fast-track option, but needed more time.

The court heard both he and Mr Tafa were among the accused who were not armed with weapons at the melee.

Mr Jibrael’s case was adjourned to December 10, while Mr Tafa will face a directions hearing at the Supreme Court on December 14.

[e-mail]