CONSPIRACY CHARGE

Hokitika Guardian, 19 November 1931, Page 3

CONSPIRACY CHARGE

PLOT TO ROB BANK.

ACCUSED YOUTH’S STATEMENT,

MAGISTRATE REFUSES BAIL,

DARGAVILLE, November 17

“A little over a week ago I was talk" ing with Reg. Hyland. He told me things were very bad and he could riot get work. The only thing to do was to break into some place.” This was part of a statement allegedly made by a half-caste of 16 years, who with Reginald Hyland, was charged before Mr G. N. Morris, S.M., this morning, with conspiring, to break into the Union Bank.

“We then started talking of breaking into banks,” said the youth. “We were going to blow the safe with gelignite on the first rough night. Two of us were going to remain inside, and one outside. We had hoped tt> get Eric Williams to help us. Hyland was to remain outside and keep watch while Williams and I were going inside. We did not know that there was someone sleeping on the premises, but we had decided to carry a piece of wood to To put them out’ with, in case there was someone on the premises. I have studied hrnv to blow a ■lock with gelignite. Hyland does not know anything of gelignite. I wanted to get a revolver for my protection when iwe broke into the bank, in case we were caught, and to make good our escape. I would not willingly shoot a man dead with a -revolver. I would only ,shoot wound him. We wanted | a motor vehicle to take the money away and hide it. After Williams had refused to come in, Hyland said he would ask a friend of his to come in.”

Evidence was given by the police th"t Hyland had written to Williams at Ivirikopuni to come 'down "on urgent business,” but the letter (produced) did not reach him. 'Hyland made a statement in which he threw the blame on the youth. Eric Willliams gave evidence that he refused to join in the plans and reins-'J the use of his motor cycle.

The accused both pleaded not .dty and were committed to the Supreme Court for trial. Hyland was allowed bail, £3OO, but the magistrate refused bail to the youth.