RESIDENT MAGISTRATE'S COURT.

Southland Times, Volume I, Issue 17, 6 January 1863, Page 2

RESIDENT MAGISTRATE'S COURT.

(Before M. Trice, Esq., E. M.) Friday, 2nd January. Assaulting the Police. — Robt. Hunter, who presented rather a dilapidated appearance, was charged with assaulting Constable M'Lean whilst in the exercise of his duty, and making use of obscene language at the Caledonian Gathering. It appeared from the evidence, that Robert, not content with enjoying himself in a rational manner, had taken a " wee drap too much," and being determined to contribute his share to the festivities of the season, challenged an innocent, unoffending constable to a pugilistic encounter. The latter, not appreciating the joke, forcibly demonstrated to Hunter the desirability of a little quiet repose ; Sergeant Chapman at the same time politely offering to furnish apartments for Mr. Hunter's convenience. This arrangement did not appear to meet the approval of Robert, who endeavored, by biting and making use of insolent languagp, to intimidate Constable M'Lean. but without avail. He was placed in a chariot, which the police lr-id on the ground for the accommodation of their fuends, and after a night's sojourn in gaol, his "Worship fined him L">, or one month's imprisonment. — Andrew Steel, bosom friend of the prisoner, was also charged with assaulting the police, and attempting a rescue. Fined 405., or 14 days' imprisonment. Stealing a Cash Box. — Thomas Wood, a gentleman supposed lo be well acquainted with the geography of Tasmania, was charged with stealing a cash-box, containing L 45, the property of Mr. Cameron, from the refreshment booth at the Caledonian Gathering. From the evidence, it appeared that the prisoner was observed in the act of removing the cash-box from a beer cask in V c booth, and the alarm being given, a most exciting race ensued between the police and Mr. Wood, which resulted in the capture of the latter, and recovery of the stolen property. The prisoner was committed for trial. Saturday, Ukd January. Drunkards. — Thomas Brennan was charged with being drunk and kicking the apprehending constable in the face. Sentenced to 14 days' imprisonment. — Thos. Holland, for being drunk, was fined ss. Breach oi- Masters and Servants Act. — William Knox was charged by Duncan M'Cullum with disobedience of lawful commands, and neglect of duty as his hired servant. Agreement cancelled and wages forfeited. Monday, sth January. Breach of Trespass Ordinance. — A. Cameron was fined ss. and costs for allowing his horse to stray in Tay-street. Furious Riding. — James Meadows was charged with furious riding in Esk and Dee streets. Fined 40s. Breach of Licensing Ordinance. — Thomas Connell, landlord of the Commercial HotH, was charged with keeping his house open for the sale of spirituous liquors beyond the term prescribed by law. Fined L 5.