A FORMER Virgin Australia crew member was just looking for a safe escort back to her hotel after getting separated from friends on New Year’s Eve, the man accused or raping her told the High Court in Lautoka yesterday.
Taking the stand on day four of his trial, Ilaisa Tanoa Degei denied allegations of rape and sexual assault, framing his actions as those of a helpful companion.
He recounted meeting the complainant at a nightclub in Nadi and after consuming a substantial amount of alcohol, he agreed to accompany the heavily intoxicated woman to a hotel.
He denied touching her, attempting to remove her clothing, or forcing her into a taxi, saying he merely intended to ensure her safe return.
State prosecutor Laisiasa Baleilevuka challenged this narrative during cross-examination and asked why he left his brother and friend behind at the club.
Mr Degei maintained they were simply friends who had just met.
The court heard that after stopping the taxi near the hotel junction, he went off to relieve himself.
Mr Degei told the court that he helped the complainant up by the waist and moments later, a police patrol intervened and brought both to the Namaka Police Station.
His brother testified that the complainant had initiated physical contact at the club by taking his brother’s hand and leading him out of the nighclub.
Justice Sunil Sharma adjourned the trial to September 18 for closing submissions.
