POLICE COURT. THIS DAY.

Auckland Star, Volume XXX, Issue 143, 19 June 1899, Page 8

POLICE COURT. THIS DAY.

(Before Mr T. Hutchison, S.M.)

Drunkenness.—Three first offenders were discharged with a caution. James McConnel was fined 5/ for having been drunk or 24 hours in default, and 20/ or one week for resisting Constable Butler while in the execution of his duty.

Licensing Act. —in the case of Police v. Duncan Stewart, alleged breach of the licensing Act, Sub-Inspector Wilson applied for an adjournment for one week. Mr Hugh Campbell, who appeared for the defence, raised no objection, and the adjournment "vvas granted.

A Series of Charges.—Charles Montgomery was charged with having on the 26th of May at Newmarket assaulted T. Manning, also with having on the same date attempted to get on a train while the same was in motion, and also with having at the same time used threatening words with intent to provoke a breach of the peace. Sub-Inspector Wilson prosecuted, and Dr. Laishley appeared for defendant, who pleaded not guiity. He asked for all three charge.-? to be taken together. Guard Manning gave evidence in support of the charge. He stated that the man struck him and he struck back with the lamp lie had in his hand at the time. The man was under the influence of liquor. Corroborative evidence was given by the stationmaster and porter at Newmarket. Dr. Laishley raised technical objections to the two second charges, which were then abandoned by the police, and the charge of assault i roceeded with. Dr. Laishley contended his client was the injured man, not the guard. Defendant being sworn deposed that he did not strike the guard at all. At Newmarket witness g-ot. off the train to see after his parcels, when the guard hit him with the lamp. Witness was covered with blood and stayed at the Newmarket Hotel. Witness was not drunk at the time. He had had a few drinks. James Montgomery deposed the guard struck his brother, and that was the only blow struck. His Worship said he Was satisfied the man was drunk and assaulted Guard Manning. Defendant was fined 40s and costs, or in default two weeks' imprisonment.