THE HAZLETT CASE.

Press, Volume LXVI, Issue 20010, 19 August 1930, Page 3

THE HAZLETT CASE.

DECISION RESERVED. craxs* ASSOCIATION TCLEaaur.) AUCKLAND, August 18. Further argument was heard in the Supreme Court to-day by Mr Justice Smith on a writ of habeas corpus in the case of Cecil Hazlett, farmer, of North Taieri, Otago, who was committed to the Inebriates' Home at Roto Roa Island. Mr J. J. Sullivan, for Hazlett, Baid that the warrant for committal had been lost. Be alleged that the Magistrate was deliberately selected by complainant (a brother) and taken into his confidence and that the Magistrate was prepared to fall in with complainant's arrangements. Mr Sullivan also alleged that at the time the order was made, Hazlett was in no condition to undergo a fait trial as required by law. Mr Hubble contended that the affidavits showed that Hazlett bad been fully seized of the meaning of the proceedings at his house. The Magistrate stated that he fully explained the whole procedure to Hazlett. They must take it that if an experienced Magistrate like Mr Bartholomew said he fully explained the matter to Hazlett then that revealed that Hazlett was in a fit state to realise the situation. Ml* Hubble said even If Hazlett had been unjustly committed what was his subsequent procedure? He was sent to the island on December 20th, he was absent on parole in February and March, returning of his own accord on each occasion. He thus indicated that he realised he was in an institution for his own good. There could be no dispute about that. It was only when the authorities at the island felt compelled to refuse Hazlett further leave that the present proceedings were taken. The Judge reserved his decision.