METHODS OF POLICE
“SHOULD NOT LEND SELVES AS CATS PA AY.”
“ln a case properly one for civil actions, the jiolice should not lend themselves as a catspaw to have the blame apportioned,” said Mr. Salmon, S.M., at Hawera, wlifen dismissing charges of breaches of the motor regulations. The case arose out of a collision on Christinas Day, one man being charged with failing to give way to traffic coming from the right and the other with failing to put out his right hand when about to turn. ‘“ln this cuse. as in nruiy, fcjie police had been called to tile scene of the accident. On arrival tliey found~the cars in a certain position with certain skidmarks visible.” said the Magistrate after hearing the evidence. “They took statements from both parties and that was all the evidence presented for the prosecution. and it is clearly insufficient.
“The police, by charging both parties. created a triangular duel, reiving upon the evidence of one party to convict another. They are not entitled to do so. The evidence for the police should be sufficient in itself to secure a conviction. The result of the existing practice is that the evidence of the respective parties is in direct conflict-, and it is impossible for the. Court to apportion the blame.”
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Bibliographic details
Gisborne Times, Volume LXX, Issue 11124, 6 February 1930, Page 6
Word Count
216METHODS OF POLICE Gisborne Times, Volume LXX, Issue 11124, 6 February 1930, Page 6
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