COURT NEWS.

Hokitika Guardian, 26 November 1930, Page 6

COURT NEWS.

ALLEGED INSURANCE FRAUD. MAN ACQUITTED. (By Telegraph—Per Press Association.) BLENHEIM, Nov. 25. In the Supreme Court, Roy Gladstone Ewart "was charged that oil or about September 27 at BlenheiuA lie did," with intent to defraud, attempt to obtain from the Phoenix Assurance Company the sum of £6OO by falsely representing that the value of the stock in his shop in Market Street -at the time of the fire which damaged the premises on September 26 was £9OO, whereas, in fact, it was of a value of £9l 3s lid. He wa«s further charged that, on the same date, lie allegedly made a false declaration of fire loss before Mr J. Barry, J.P. The aoeused pleaded not guilty to both charges. The jury returned a verdict of not guilty. Ewart was also charged on three counts that in March, April and July last lie received sums of £5 10s and £2 2s and £3 3b on terms requiring him to account for them to Nathan Tossman, furrier of Christchurch, and he allegedly failed to do so, thereby committing theft. Ewart was agent in Blenheim for Tossman. After counsel had opened, the court adjourned till next day.

INDECENT ASSAULT CHARGE.

VERDICT OF NOT GUILTY

NEW PLYMOUTH, Nov. 25

“It is mistaken identity, and I plead not guilty,” said Timothy Piciard •Christian, when charged at the Supreme Court with indecently assaulting a girl aged fieven at Hawern. The ease depended largely on the evidence of the girl and of a small hoy, who said that lie had seen' Christian near the locality. The girl was not definitely able to identify Christian’s coat, and quoted various colours. She had selected Christian in an identification parade without hesitation. Christian was acquitted by the jury.