AN ACQUITTAL

Dominion, Volume 21, Issue 172, 21 April 1928, Page 11

AN ACQUITTAL

MINISTER CHARGED WITH WIFE MURDER Mibourne, April 20. The trial of Ronald Griggs, formerly a Methodist probationary minister at Omeo, 011 a charge of murdering his wife! by arsenic poisoning, was continued. Griggs, in evidence, stated that he was the Methodist minister at Omeo, but was never fully ordained. Three months after his marriage he and his wile seemed to drift apart, and he became acquainted with Lottie Condon, but about five mouths elapsed before they became friendly. Before his wife departed for Tasmania his wife had suggested to him that they obtain a divorce, but lie asked her to go to Tasmania for six months, and during that time they could both think things over. His wife consented, adding that, if she came back, it would only be to collect her belongings, as she would never live with him again. The witness continued, saying that while his wife was awav he became very’ fond of Lottie Condon, and wished to marry her. He concluded Iris evidence by replying to a question as to whether his wife drank milk that she never did, not even in tea. The wife’s mother and several other witnesses then gave evidence that they had never known Mrs. Griggs to drink tea without milk. The evidence then concluded. Counsel have commenced their addresses. A wireless message from Sydney received late last night stated that the jurv, after a retirement of six hours, returned with a verdict of not guilty against Grigg.