A SERIOUS CHARGE.

Gisborne Times, Volume XXV, Issue 2155, 10 August 1907, Page 2

A SERIOUS CHARGE.

ACCUSED ALLEGES JEALOUSY. JURY FAIL TO AGREE. Press Association. AUCKLAND, August 9. At the Supreme Court to-day a charge of indecency and of assaulting a married woman at Whakahane on June 10 was preferred against 'Win. George Rashlekdi, who pleaded not guilty. Mr. Tole in opening stated that a fortnight before the alleged offence was committed the accused was lodging at complainant’s house. On the afternoon in question while she was lying down accused came in, and, leaning over her, rubbed his face against liers. She awoke with a start and pushed him away. Accused then asked about a handkerchief which he had left lu. hind. Accused had left certain lug?' gage in the kitchen, and complainant'’ directed him where to get it Accused then left the room, but returned again and committed the offence ’ Ho subsequently left. Complainant then went into tlie township and in-' formed her husband. The latter on meeting with accused taxed him with the offence and struck him, after which he gave information to the police. Evidence was then called. Accused, ■on oath, - denied tho charge. He declared ho was only' ■ skylarking with complainant. He acknowledged kissing her on a pre- t vious occasion. He declared that she was in love with him, ami w&s-jea-lous because lie was hot paying her as much attention as formerly. Tiio jury retired at 5 o’clock to consider its verdict. At 9 o’clock the jurv pronounced that it was unable to agree, and a now trial lias been ordered.