MACKAY'S SENTENCE.

Hokitika Guardian, 28 May 1920, Page 3

MACKAY'S SENTENCE.

15 YEARS HARD LABOUR (Per Press* Association.)

(Particulars of evidence appear on

fourth pngey)

WANGANUI, May 28. Charles Ewan Mac Kay, who pleaded guilty to attempted murder, was brought up for sentence at the Supreme Court this morning. In addressing his Honour, on behalf of the accused, Mr Treadwell said after very careful, serious consideration by himself and his friend Air Afcßeth it was derided that the only course, which under the circumstances was the only honourable course, could be pursued, was that Mac Kay should plead guilty. It was his duty to exonerate Cress well and he did this with the full concurrence and approval of accused, from any blame whatever. Proceeding Mr Treadwell said the accused was a. man of (considerable scholastic attainments, a member of an honourable profession, and until recently occupied the highest position his fellow citizens could bestow and now he was in this position. -Some cause had to he sought for the reason of this The reason Air Treadwell thought, would be found to be subject for regret, and he gave it in justification of the accused and hope for a .somewhat mitigating sentence. Enquiries had been made and it was found for a number of years the accused had been suffering ,/from homo-sexual monomania. Mr Treadwell said he had gone considerably into the matter with accused and thought he was justified in speaking of the efforts the accused had made to cure himself. He had consulted doctors and metaphysicians for some months. Accused was suffering from mental strain and this together with the threat of exposure had unhinged his mind. Air Treadwell /concluded by appealing to his Honor to temper justice with merev.

His Honour addressing Mac Kay said he was very sorry for him in this position. He had known accused and his family for many years. He was one of the most brilliant university students and. his career since had been good. He had had the highest position in the weity and now he was in the dock. His Honour said the attempt at imir. der was an impulsive act, as had been shown by Cresswell’s statement. He had been asked to exercise his functions with compassion and mercy, but it should be remembered that this was an attack on human life. His honour said he still hoped that Mac Kay would redeem himself.

He then sentenced accused, to fifteen years hard labour.