Members of New Plymouth’s Catholic community have offered support to the woman alleged to have set fire to their church down on January 6.
Last week, a group of about 10 mostly elderly people, several of whom were family members, supported Donna Joy Esma Mischeski in court where she pleaded not guilty to wilfully damaging Saint Philomena Church.
One of her supporters says she believes Ms Mischeski, who is a member of the Catholic community, would never have intended to cause any harm.
Outside, her brother-in-law Laurie Koch said Mischeski had extensive mental health issues and should be in supportive care.
A psychiatrist is satisfied Ms Mischeski is fit to stand trial.
She has been remanded on bail until her case review hearing on May 15
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