Palmerston man appears in Darwin Local Court over partner’s alleged murder

A PALMERSTON man accused of murdering his long-term partner is still feeling ‘shell shocked’ over her death, a court has heard

A man accused of murdering his long-term partner has appeared in Darwin Local Court for a brief hearing

A PALMERSTON man accused of murdering his long-term partner is still feeling “shell shocked” over her death, a court has heard.

Neil Nalarra Marika, 34, was charged with murder following the death of his 29-year-old partner in their home on Cornwallis Circuit, Gray at about 9pm on October 4.

Marika looked visibly dishevelled as he appeared in custody at Darwin Local Court for a brief hearing on Monday morning.

Wearing an orange jumper, shorts and thongs, Mr Marika remained silent with his hands in his pockets as the charges against him were read aloud in court.

He is facing one charge of murder, two charges of engaging in conduct that contravenes a domestic violence order and two charges of possessing a schedule two drug.

Marika’s defence lawyer Marty Aust said the couple had been together for a long time and had children together.

“He’s particularly stressed so I’m not asking to make any orders at this time,” Mr Aust said.

“He’s certainly a bit shell shocked from the news of the charge along with the death of his partner.”

Marika was remanded in custody to reappear for a further mention hearing at 10am on November 28.

Judge Greg Cavanagh said he would be taken back to Darwin Correctional Centre and reappear for his next hearing via video link.