POISONING CHARGE

Greymouth Evening Star, 12 November 1932, Page 5

POISONING CHARGE

I NURSE’S TRIAL POSTPONED. [per press association.] AUCKLAND, November 11. Nurse Elspeth Kerr appeared in the Supreme Court this afternoon on a charge of attempted poisoning with intent to injure. An application made by defendant’s counsel for an adjournment until the February sessions was granted on bail. The accused is a widow, 45 years of age, of Devonport. It is alleged that she administered poison to a child with intent to injure. Before her appearance before .Mr Justice Herdman this afternoon she had been in custody since April last. Her counsel said that the case had been set down for hearing on November 28. He understood that the Crown had a considerable volume of evidence but it was technical evidence and referred to both the chemical and medical aspects of the case. Mr Finlay asked for an adjournment in order that the defence might have an opportunity to become fully informed of the details, which were essential for the defence. “The prisoner has been in gaol since April, with regard to this charge,” he said, “and I see no reason why she should not be given the opportunity of bail.”

His Honor to the Crown Prosecutor: Are you ready to go on?—Yes, sir, but it is a matter in which it might be necessary to have bail. I have no objection to bail. His Honor: The application is made by the accused and under the circumstances will be granted. Th© bail must be substantial. Do you want any special conditions imposed? The Crown Prosecutor: I would suggest at least £5OO. His Honor agreed, and the case was then adjourned until February. A special condition was made that Mrs Kerr report to the police once a week.