No Proof that Napier Police Got Liquor

Grey River Argus, 12 October 1948, Page 3

No Proof that Napier Police Got Liquor

WELLINGTON, Oct. 11. “We are of the opinion that tho evidence does not prove the allegations made by James Clifford Bolger, that during the period between August 11, 1947, and April 15, 1948, he made gifts of intoxicating liquor to members of rhe police force at Napier.” This is the opinion of the committee of inquiry which recently investigated the allegations of the licensee of the Caledonian Hotel, Napier, that he had made gifts of liquor to several constables. The committee’s report says: “Bolger was a most unsatisfactory wit-, ness, who was prepared to make lightly, impossible accusations. He was supported for the most part by persons of questionable character, who had been or were still in his employ. Fie pinned his faith on an ex-employee, named McEachen, who he said, would know what occurrtd if anyone did. When McEachen was called, he contradicted Bolger in every material particular. We formed the opinion that McEachen was a witness of truth.” The committee’s report was released to-day by the Acting-Minister in charge of Police. Mr Nash.