CHARGE AGAINST GRAYNDLER

Hokitika Guardian, 26 February 1920, Page 4

CHARGE AGAINST GRAYNDLER

ILL-TREATING HIS CHILDREN

fpEn PEEBB ASSOCUIiON. —COPYRIGHT.]

WELLINGTON, Feb. 25. In the case against Charles Grayndler, the following evidence was given: Called as a witness for the defence, Dr Faulke said that defendant, when witness first saw him, appeared to be suffering from the effects of influenza. He was mentally confused and in some respects appeared to have lost his memory. Witness directed his removel to a private hospital, and in such an institution Grayndler remained for a time under witness’s observation. Defendant’s nervous condition in many respects as abnormal. In witness’s opinion Grayndler could not be held responsible for what had happened. Grayndler had delusions about Ins wife and a Maori. He required complete rest. To Sub-inspector Emerson: “In my opinion defenant did not I'ealise he was | beating the children. He was not aware | that ho was doing the children an injury.

Other witnesses gave evidence bearing on the state of Grayndler’s nerves. Grayndler in giving evidence, said .lie did not remember having beaten his children, but he believed their statements. He had searched his mind, but could not recollect what had happened. He had reared eight children and was fond of them all.

To Sub-Inspector Emerson: “His condition had been brought about through overwork during the past five years.” He had refused to accept holidays till he had completed his work. To the Magistrate: “Since leaving hospital he had been staying at a boardinghouse. His wife had always been a good woman, and a good mother to the children.

Decision was reserved till Friday morning.