Virtual trial set for Royal Navy sailor charged in Tumon attack

A Royal Navy sailor involved in a serious fight in Tumon during their visit to the island will be going to trial, but he won't have to appear in person. 

Defendant Ashley Mansell appeared virtually before Judge John Terlaje today. 

It was said in court that he waived having to return to the island to face trial inside the courtroom. Instead, the court granted the virtual appearance. 

The trial is set to begin on May 26. 

Mansell stands accused of allegedly groping a woman at a Tumon nightclub back in August 2021. He also allegedly triggered a fight where he and co-defendant Malek Fraser punched a man in the jaw. 

Mansell previously told the court the case is affecting his military career.