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Sex workers accused of breach

Two sex workers charged with breaching lockdown by travelling to Blenheim may have their cases heard in Auckland, where it is understood a lawyer is willing to represent them for free.

The women, aged in their 40s, had their attendance excused when they were called in the Blenheim District Court yesterday.

As did Auckland businesswoman Maria Johnson, who allegedly travelled to the Marlborough Sounds during lockdown to have a property valued.

Johnson had completed diversion, the court heard, meaning she would avoid

prosecution and conviction.

The two sex workers were denied name suppression by Judge Tony Zohrab at their first appearance on October 14. Both

women had appealed that decision.

Judge Arthur Tompkins granted interim name suppression on Tuesday pending the outcome of the appeal.

Lawyers Josh Smith and John Holdaway applied to have the charges transferred to the Auckland District Court.

Holdaway said he understood a lawyer

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2021-10-27T07:00:00.0000000Z

2021-10-27T07:00:00.0000000Z

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