LIQUOR THE CAUSE

Bay of Plenty Beacon, Volume 9, Issue 22, 9 November 1945, Page 5

LIQUOR THE CAUSE

DRUNKEN WOMAN ASSAULTED

YOUNG MAORI CHARGED

Arising out of an argument in which it was stated he had remonstrated with a Maori woman (his cousin) on account of her drinking habits. Frederick lopata, of Ruatoki % faced the. Court last Tuesday on a charge of common asault.. He pleaded guilty and was fined £5.

According to police evidence lopata had attended a dance at Ruatoki on the night of October 1, and was returning home with his cart and horse when lie offered the girl concerned a lift v On the way borne the girl who was his cousin and had unfortunately been drinking at the dance had got into an argument with him. Accused who did

not approve of her drinking habits remonstrated, with her strongly. The struggle had resulted mainly out of the girl's resentment, and accused had thrown her to the ground and placed his hand over her mouth to prevent her calling out.

Mr Otley, who appeared lor accused, agreed that the police evidence was broadly correct, lopata

had strong convictions regarding drinking and unfortunatelv with reJ * ' gard to his cousin had taken the 9

law into his own hands. He regretted his action now and was norm-

ally a decent living Maori wlio had never been in trouble before.