MURDER CHARGE

Evening Post, Volume CXXXI, Issue 31, 6 February 1941, Page 11

MURDER CHARGE

TRIAL OF LONGLEY

WIFE CALLED BY THE CROWN

DEAD MAN'S BEARING

(By Telegraph.—Press Association.) HAMILTON, February 5. Giving evidence in the trial of Charles Harold Longley, aged 39, of Manunui, charged with murdering Jeremia O'Sullivan on September 22 last year, Dr. A. B. Sturtevant, Taumarunui, stated in evidence that the accused had suffered abdominal injuries following a blasting accident, three or four years ago. Since then he had complained of pains and inability to sleep. He was highly neurotic and would sit and gaze at nothing. He would start at the least thing. In answer to a question from, his Honour, the witness said that Longley was not insane but in a state of serious neurosis. He was highly strung and would easily be aroused at the slightest provocation. Constable George Edwards, Manunui, said that after the tragedy the accused said to him, "I did not know it was loaded. I only intended to frighten him." The witness said that Mrs. Longley had complained on September 20 that O'Sullivan had been annoying them and had threatened to bum their cottage. . When Mabel Longley, wife of the prisoner, was' called by Mr. Gillies, his Honour said it was extremely unusual for the wife of an accused to be called as a witness for the Crown, and for the prisoner to waive all his privileges. His Honour considered that the fact that the accused's wife had been called at the accused's request should be recorded. Mrs. Longley then gave evidence that O'Sullivan saw her on September 21 and told her that if she and her family were not out of the house within, a week he would burn it down. When she asked him not to worry her husband, who was ill, O'Sullivan replied that he would smash him. O'Sullivan called at the back door on September 22 and a discussion took place with regard to the use of the car shed, the witness continued. When she told him they had the right to use the shed, he called her a ; mgrel and raised his right hand to her face. She stepped back and his hand grazed her cheek. Witness said she then heard a report and saw O'Sullivan fall. Her husband had never threatened O'Sullivan. The hearing was adjourned till tomorrow.