THE CASE OF RAYNER.

NZ Truth, Issue 73, 10 November 1906, Page 3

THE CASE OF RAYNER.

TO THE EDITOB.

Sir,— l shall be glad if you will' throw the searching eyes of "Truth" upon the case of Rayner, late secretary of Druids, charged with embezzlement of that Society's funds and sentenced to the extraordinary term of five years' imprisonment. The warrant under which lie was arrested stated that two years was the maximum penalty, and the Friendly Societies' Act, states, the same punishment. How is it that the Judge, m face of this, inflicted a punishment of five years ? Has he the power to override these acts, and inflict any punishment he sees fit ? Again, take the same Judge's sentences, m a late case at New Plymouth, on all fours with this— a sentence of twelve months was imposed— the Judge, m sentencing the prisoner, stated that he would temper justice with mercy. Why was not the same done here ? This was his first offence, after being a good and faithful servant, for over twenty years— and being a married man, with a wife m constant ill-health, and young family practically penniless, depending, on him for support. Again, take the late case m Christchurch where a man bad been carrying on his thieving business . for over twenty years, and thousands of pounds were at issue, a sentence of two years was imposed. Why is this ; if he has not the power to inflict a larger sentence m .r-.e case, why has he the power m another ? Why not temper justice with mercy m this case, which is deserving (notwithstanding the rumors of the man-in-the-street talk, which has been prove:! untrue), and mete out proper justice and fair-play to all. I trust that you will ventilate this case through your paper, and see that proper justice is done.— Yours, etc^ fairplay; Christchurch, Oct. 25, 1906.