Lack of ruling on Steven Wallace case draws fire 16 February 2007 There is frustration at the length of time a coroner is taking to rule on the death of Waitara man Steven Wallace, who was killed by police. Mr Wallace, 23, was shot by Constable Keith Abbott in April 2000, after he had been smashing windows in the Taranaki town. The inquest wrapped up in September 2005 and the coroner, Gordon Matenga, reserved his decision, but there is still no ruling. The Wallace family's lawyer, Ron Mansfield, says it is uncommon for an inquest to take so long and any delay is hard for the family. Police Association president Greg O'Connor says the delay is unacceptable. The coroner says it is inappropriate for him to comment.
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