CHARGE OF WIFE MURDER

Dominion, Volume 12, Issue 119, 13 February 1919, Page 6

CHARGE OF WIFE MURDER

TRIAL OF EDWARD CAMPBELL. By Telegraph-rress Association. ' - Auckland, February 12. trial of Edward Campbell, on a charge, of murdering his wife by drown--ing her in the Wa'iroa River, was continued to-day. One .witness stated that on the evening of the alleged crime accused came into a billiard room and remained there until he went to the theatre with witness. Afterwards they went home. , Constable Boag, in his evidence, stated that the accused told him he had put his wife in the river, and showed how he held her by {he neck. He said that she cried out: "Mother! Mother!" and Ire then got frightened and ran away. Later witness obtained an interpreter and secured a statement from the accused.

Counsel for the accused objected to this statement, and medical evidence was-call-ed to ascertain the mind of accused when he made it.

Dr. Drier said he did not. think that the accused was in a fit state to realise tho meaning of what was said to him, and might have said anything, while Dr. Beattie, medical superintendent of the Mental Hospital, said he was certain accused could appreciate what was said to him. Witness believed that his treatment by the Natives, together with fear and remorse had a great deal to do-with his condition.

The Judge decided to admit the statement, which contained an admission of guilt. The interpreter who interpreted the statement when' it was madebv the accused, said that it was obtained by I he. constable askiiie the question several times. The. accused said: "I do not want to answer these questions at all." Witness said that the constable did not warn the accused, who had. simply said "Yes" to everything he was asked. The witness judged that'accused was mad. -Constable Boag, recalled, said that not once during the interview did (he interpreter say that the accused objected to giving- the statement. .

The" hearing was adjourned