CRIMINAL SESSIONS.

Evening Star, Issue 6030, 10 July 1882, Page 3

CRIMINAL SESSIONS.

AUCKLAND, July 10. Mr Justice Gillies, in charging the Or. u l Jury, said _ that there were twenty-two charges against oicvon prisoners. Ho was Bony that the duties of tho jury would ho somewhat arduous, though from the number of tho charges and the gravity of tho offences it was not to be inferred that there had been an increase of crime in the district, two of the most seiiuua offences having been committed years ago. The evidence in Wiuiata’s case would bo simple, but in the case of Fakura and Epiha proof of guilt would hang on the identification of tho prisoners with those who fired at M‘ William. Referring to the charge against Fairburn of being illegally oa the Rev. Mr Giltoa's promises, he said that ho did not know on what charge the Crown Prosecutor intended to act, but he pointed out that unless it could be proved that the prisoner was there with felonious intent the case must fall through. In cases of rape on children under twelve years of age ho pointed out that consent on the part of the persons assaulted was not an element of defence. George Bennett, for stealing Id 3 from the person, pleaded guilty, and was sentenced to one year’s imprisonment, with hard labor, to date from the time of his committal. WELLINGTON, Jdlt 10. H. E. Liardet, for perjury, was acquitted. CHRISTCHURCH, July 10. The criminal sessions commenced at the Supreme Court this morning. Judge Johnston, after remarking that the calendar contained nothing of exceptional interest, commented briefly on each case to be heard. There are in all twenty-one cases for trial.