A CHARGE OF MURDER.

Taranaki Daily News, 14 February 1919, Page 2

A CHARGE OF MURDER.

THE WAIROA CASE. By Telegraph.—Press Association. | _, Auckland, Feb. 12. | The trial of Edward Campbell on a | charge of murdering his wife, drowning I her in the Wairoa river, was continued to-day. One witness btated that on the evening of the alleged crime accused camo into a billiard room and remained there until he went to the theatre. Constable Boag in evidence stated that accused told him he had put his wile in the river and showed how he had held her by the aeck. He said she cried out "Mother, mother," and he then got frightened and ran away. Later witness obtained an interpreter and secured a statement from accused. Counsel for accused . objected to this statement, and medical evidence was called to ascertain the state of mind of accused when he made it. _ Dr Drier said he did not think ac- * cused was in a fit state to realise the j meaning of what was said to him, and might have done anything, while Br Beattie, medical superintendent of the mental hospital, said he was certain accused could appreciate what was said to him. Witness believed his treatment by the natives, together with the fear and remorse, had'a great deal to do with his condition. The judge decided to admit the statement, which contained an admission of i guilt. The interpreter who inter- | preted the statement when made by. 1 accused said it was obtained by the jj constable • asking a question several | times. Accused said, "I do not want to answer these questions at all." Witness said the constable did not warn accused. Accused hid simply said "Yes" to everything he was asked. Constable Boag, recalled, said not once during the interview did the interpreter say accused objected to giving the statement. The hearing was adjourned.