MAGISTRATE'S COURT.

Hokitika Guardian, 26 March 1924, Page 3

MAGISTRATE'S COURT.

TUESDAY MARCH 25th. (Before Messrs D. J. Evans and A. E. Benjamin, Justices.) BREAKING AND ENTERING CHARGE. Richard Arthur Nash was chargisc with, at night, on 12th. January, breaking and entering the premises, of Peter Stephens, and theft of a number of articles and money, of a t-otal value of £2OO. (Continued). AFTERNOON SITTING. The Court resumed at 3 p.m. Sergt. King, cross-examined by Mr Wells:—He altered the charge against Nash because certain property found in the possession of accused was not contained in the first list of goods given by Stephens as missing. The whole of the articles, included that stuff found on the dredge road. The first information did not include the clock, mouth organ, tobacco in hulk, glycerine, pipes. The sedond charge was laid after a search of accused’s possessions. The articles found in accused’s possession were not unusual ones for a working man to carry aliout. M itness had found out that the money in accused’s possession was for wages paid out by the Kokatahi Sawmill Coy. When searched he found on Nash three handkerchiefs and he claimed them as his own. This was the ease for the police. Mr Wells intimated that lie did not intend to call evidence, lie claimed that there was not a prima facie ease to answer, as there was nothing to implicate his client with breaking, entering and stealing at Stephens. The only evidence, which so far was not contradicted that affected his client was the admission to Sergt King as to the

portion of the swag and that could he easily explained later if necessary. He claimed that no jury would convict on the evldeuo. He therefore asked that the charge be dismissd. After consideration the Rctivii intimated that it was intended to commit accused for trial at tlio next sittings of the Supreme Court. Accused then pleaded not guilty and reserved his defence. An application for bail was granted of two sureties of £IOO each or one of £2OO, but was not at the lime forthcoming. FOUND DRUNK. A first offender, charged with being found drank was convicted and ordered to pay costs of medical attendance incurred amounting to £3 ( ! s 2d.