UNLUCKY SHIP’S OFFICER

Greymouth Evening Star, 13 July 1934, Page 10

UNLUCKY SHIP’S OFFICER

AGAIN WRONGLY ACCUSED

CAPETOWN, May 27

Alfred Jennins Brewer, the British ship’s officer who was arrested and imprisoned in 1927 at Benguela (Portuguese West Africa) on a charge of petty theft and was finally acquitted and recompensed, has been charged at East London with being found on enclosed premises by night without lawful excuse. He pleaded not guilty and after a long hearing was acquitted. Miss Kathleen Hayes stated in evidence that she saw Brewer approach her bedroom window after midnight and climb on to the sill. He then handled an article of her clothing which lay on a chair. She challenged him and called . her father, who took •him into the house. Brewer seemed surprised, but did not attempt to run away. He asked if the house was that of a Mr. Brian or a Mr. Bryant. Brewer, in evidence, said he was looking for a. friend named Miss De Bruin, who had changed her address since he last saw her. He went to the Hayse’s house and rang the bell, and while he was waiting Miss Hayes ‘and her father challenged him. He told them why he was there, and gave the name and address of the friend he was seeking’. He denied that he climbed the sill or handled any clothing.

The court found that the number on the Hayse’s house was not clearly indicated, and that by reason of the position of a street lamp the shadow of a person standing on the verandah at the front door would be reflected on Miss Hayes’ window. Brewer was therefore found hot •guilty and discharged.