ABORTION CASE.

Hokitika Guardian, 22 May 1919, Page 2

ABORTION CASE.

WEST COASTERS CONvICTED. , WELLINGTON, May 17. ' In the Supreme Court yesterday, Joseph Hill, (.of Wellington), Jean Collyns, (of Runanga), and Alice gcoble, (of Blackball), were charged with conspiring to procure abortion. There were liuee counts in the indictment, the other two being using an instrument, and administering noxious drugs to procure abortion. There were four counts igainst Joseph Hill, three against Jean Colly ns, and two against Alice Scoble. • At the outset, Mr Jackson, asked that the three counts against Jean Collyns, should be taken separately. He made the application under section 2of clause 397 of the Crimes Act. His Honour: You want three trials. Mr Jackson: Yes, Your Honour. There was a Hong discussion on the subject and His Honour held that he could not do that, for lie was being asked to set up a- new rule. The three ac. cased were mixed up in tho matter, and His Honour refused to order a separate trial. All three pleaded not guilty. The jury retired at o p.m., and returned at half-past eight with a verdict of not guilty against Hill on all four counts; Jean Collyns was found guilty on the second count, and not guilty on the other two counts; and Alice Scoble was found guilty on both counts.

In the ease of Alice Scoble, the jury recommended her to lie treated with leniency because of her age and illhealth.

The Chief Justice sentenced Scoble to three years imprisonment, and Collyns to two years and a half.