R. M. COURT, GISBORNE.

Poverty Bay Standard, Volume I, Issue 84, 6 March 1884, Page 2

R. M. COURT, GISBORNE.

(Before Capt. T. W. Porter, and A. Graham, Esq., J.Ps.) YESTERDAY. P. E. RICHARDSON V. T. WRIGHT. T. Wright, of Matawhero, was brought up charged with using insulting language towards P. E. Richardson whilst in the execution of his duty as Returning Officer of the Gisborne Licensing District. Mr. Brassey appeared in support of the charge, and stated the case. P. E. Richardson was the complainant in this case. The defendant came to the pollingbooth and made a number of complaints, and endeavored to coerce witness into certain action with respect to the candidates for election, and insisted in pointing out his (witness’s) duty. He ordered the defendant out, but he refused to leave. Witness then decided to adjourn the poll, when the defendant abused him in the manner described in the complaint, at the same time remarking that he “had” the complainant as there was no witness. Cross-examined—The defendant put in objections which were absurd and frivolous. Had never written the paragraph which appeared in the papers.

After S. Stevenson and the defendant had been heard, the latter stating that plaintiff had called him a scoundrel and refused to treat him (defendant) fairly, the Court fined the defendant 20s. and £2 Is. costs, in default 48 hours’ imprisonment. The Cofirt then adjourned.