The Courts.

Alexandra Herald and Central Otago Gazette, Issue 413, 14 April 1904, Page 5

The Courts.

PJLIOE COURT, OPHIR.

Wednesday, April Bth, 1904. (Before Messrs J. Pitches and J. M'Knight, J.P.'s)

John Merrill, a navvy employed on the Otago Central Railway works, was charged with having assaulted Thomas Hussev, at Ohatto Greek, on March 26th. *■

Constable Kennedy appeared for the police, and Mr Hutton for defendant, who pleaded guilty to the charge but under great provocation. Evidence was given at some length by Constable White, Ronald M'Pherson, and Thos. Hussey. Mr Hutton contended for the defence that the accused and complainant were working together on a rock-cutt-ing on the railway works at Ohatto Creek, and through some grievance both men left off work to interview the engineer. Meantime, however, they met at the Ohatto Creek hotel, where complainant used some insultiug words to accused, causing him to strike the complainant. Counsel contended that the charge should be dismissed. The Bench said, there was some doubt about the evidence and they decided to convict the accused, and fine him Is, with court costs and witnesses' expenses amounting to. XI 3s 9d; in default seven days hard labour in Clyde gaol. Accused was allowed two weeks in which to pay the fine. A further charge of using threatening language was withdrawn by the police. .