GROSSLY INDECENT ACT.

Hawera Star, Volume XLVIII, 18 August 1924, Page 5

GROSSLY INDECENT ACT.

NATIVE; BEFORE COURT. Before Messrs. E. Dixon and C. O. Ekdahl. J.P.’s, a native named Taneroa Wliaipahanga was this morning charged with committing a grossly indecent act in a public place. Sergeant Henry said that the offence in question was committed in Union Street on Saturday afternoon, there being a number of people about at the time. Accused, who, when accosted by the police, admitted that he had done wrong, had bad a few drinks, but was not actually drunk. Mr. L. A. Taylor, for accused, pointed out that there was no criminal intent- in the offence —it was only a question of manners. It should also be taken into consideration that such matters were not viewed in the same way by the majority of natives in the pas. Also accused’s age (22 years) should be taken into account; he was really quite a youth. Sergeant Henry pointed out that while accused was quite young, his police record would do justice to a much older man. A fine of £3 was imposed, a weekbeing given in which to find the money. Accused was( also asked if he would consent to a prohibition order being out against him, but bis reply of “No!” was loud and prompt.