Kobauri's Lawyer Quits Amid Rape Rumors
Amid a rush of horrific rumors concerning the actions leading up to the death of Lora Smith early this month, the lawyer of the accused shepherd has quit.
An unamed source this weekend spoke to Georgian media about the initial autopsy results which had found the DNA of Malkhaz Kobauri on the body of Lora. The source claimed that the forensic examination of the woman revealed she was raped and then drowned, with the cause of the death being asphyxia.
During the initial questioning, Malkhaz Kobauri said it was he who killed the Smiths, but later changed his testimony and declared at the trial that he was innocent.
Kvirispalitra says he was questioned again on July 20 within the presence of his lawyer Davit Girgvliani and that he pleaded guilty.
On July 22, Girgvliani took to Facebook to inform society that he will no longer be defending the suspect.
“This case should be continued without my participation. I wish success to my colleague or colleagues who will continue to protect him [Kobauri], since all people have the right to be defended regardless of the crime they committed,” the statement of the lawyer reads.
No official comments have been made as yet over the case, and the Ministry of Internal Affairs has not confirmed any of the rumors spread this weekend.
As reported, the complex examination will be concluded in a month and the results will be made public only afterwards.
By Thea Morrison
Photo source: 1TV
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