POWELKA IN COURT.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XXXII, Issue 837, 10 May 1910, Page 3

POWELKA IN COURT.

THE MURDER CHARGE. Palmerston N., May 7. The heading of the charge of murdering Sergeant Maguire, preferred against Joseph John Powelka, was continued this morning before Mr A. D. Thomson, S.M. Accused was apparently ill at ease, and while Constable Gallagher was giving evidence as to the arrest, he caused a mild sensation by jumping up in the dock and hissing out the word “ Liar!” However, he quickly quietened down, and the taking of evidence was resumed, the prisoner not making any further demonstration.

Edwin Dinnie, Finger-print Expert of the Police Department, said the bottle produced bad on it several finger-marks, five of which were in such positions as to indicate that the bottle had been handled with the right hand, the bottle being in an upside-down position. The marks which would indicate the right ring finger appeared lar more clearly than the others. The impressions of the other fingers were smudged, and showed no details except a few made by the right little finger. These were photographed and enlarged, and were found identical with the finger-prints on the glass from the High School. Twelve of the characteristics agreed with the finger prints of accused. Constable Gallagher described the arrest of Powelka at Ashhurst on April 17. After getting accused from the loft Powelka said, “ You cowards !” and shortly after he made an attempt to get away and tripped witness, cutting his leg. A few yards further on, while they were taking him to the police station, Powelka said to witness, “Do you think I am a coward ? If so, take these off (referring to the handcuffs) and I will show you!” Witness replied, 11 It’s all right, Joe; you wouldn’t shoot me.” Then Thompson said to Powelka, “ Who shot poor Maguire?” and accused replied, ” But who fired the first shot ?”

Tbe Court was here again electrified by the word ” Liar !” hissed out, and it was seen that Powelka had jumped to his feet in the dock, and appeared greatly excited. Constable Thompson corroborated the last witness’ evidence. Detective Cassell said he saw the accused in the Palmerston North Police Station, and charged him with the murder of Sergeant Maguire. Accused made no reply. This was the case for the prosecution. Accused reserved his defence, and was committed for trial, and the Court adjourned.