DISCHARGE OF THE NATIVE PRISONERS AT NEW PLYMOUTH.

South Canterbury Times, Issue 2846, 9 May 1882, Page 2

DISCHARGE OF THE NATIVE PRISONERS AT NEW PLYMOUTH.

1 1 I I [By Telegraph.] New Plymouth, May 9. In discharging the Native prisoners charged under the “ West Coast Settlement Act,” the Judge said “ I understand the Attorney-General has ordered the .Crown Prosecutor to enter a nolle prosequi in the two Native cases under the “ West Coast Settlement Act.” I have no right to interfere in the matter in any respect except to express my surprise at such a course as has been taken. That the prisoners should be brought up on so serious a charge under a special act; that (hoy should bo kept in prison for six mouths on that grave charge, and that the Crown Prosecutor should apply to enter a nolle prosequi seems a very extraordinary proceeding on tho part of the Government, more especially when I see that

two of the indictments have been, quashed on account of the insufficiency on the face of them.” Then addressing Eangi, ho said “ the Government have determined not to bring you to be tried on the charge you have already been in prison six months waiting for, nor does the Government offer any evidence. You are therefore free to go where you will.’’ The Native did not seem understand the situation, but left the box.