ALLEGED EVASION OF SERVICE

Dominion, Volume 11, Issue 240, 28 June 1918, Page 4

ALLEGED EVASION OF SERVICE

CHARGE OF REMOVING A SON PROM CAMP. By Telegraph-Press Association. Hawera, Juno 27. George Perrett, farmer, of Mahoe, appeared before the Magistrate to-day, charged that, on April 25, at Featherston, he did tnlie away from Featherston Camp Private, Edward John Perrett, a member of the Expeditionary Force, with intent to evade the continuation of the servieo of "the reservist in that force.

Second-Lieutenant Parker, attached to the Headquarters Staff, Featherston, gavo evidenco tlmt Private Perrett returned from final leave on April 23. A certified copy of proceedings at a. court of inquiry at. Featherston Camp on May 21 in reference to Perrett was produced.

John Morris Ifovind, a member >f tho Expeditionary Force, deposed that on April 25, he, in company with Perrett and Private Perrett, left Featherston Camp to go to Mahoe. They walked to Greytown and secured a motor-car, leaving between 8 and 9 o'clock at night. They lireakfasted at Hawera, and arrived at Mahoe about 10 o'clock. Private Perrett • and witness remained in Perrett's nnddock, the latter bringing them food. Mr. Perrett paitl tho taxi-driver. Witness was punished on his return 'to camp. Cross-examined, witness said that he had given himself up to the authorities about three weeks ago. Witness admitted that Perrett seiiior, suggested that both should go hack to camp. Thomas Lawson Elder, taxi-driver, of Greytown, said he was engaged l.y Perrett, sen., who naid witness ,£l(s niul a few Nothing was said about tho soldiers dividing tho expenses of the car. He thought when they reached Fnwora that something was wrong by tho conduct of the nnrly.

Major Hnx, Group Commander, said thnt TTovind nave himself up, but Private Perrett had not. yet..been found. Accused pleaded not cuilty. reserved his defence, and was committed fo- tHiil. Bail was allowed, accused in .£2OO, aid two sureties nf JMIHI each.