GENERAL O’DUFFY

Hawke's Bay Tribune, Volume XXIV, Issue 9, 21 December 1933, Page 5

GENERAL O’DUFFY

HABEAS CORPUS WRIT Criticism of Police Action CART BEFORE THE HORSE (By Telegraph—Press Assn.—Copyright.) (Received 21, 11.35 a.m.) LONDON, Dec. 20. Despite a protest, by General O’Duffy’s bar, including three King’s Counsel, the habeas corpus application was adjourned till to-morrow. An affidavit, by the driver of General O 'Duffy’s car stated that General O’Duffy and his companions wore overcoats and only small portions of their blue shirts were visible. Supporters carried General O’Duffy to the platform and clamoured tor a speech. Directly he spoke the superintendent of police arrested him. He gave no warning that the meeting was illegal or had been proclaimed. Mr. Costello, for the defence, said that the superintendent, though aware of the habeas corpus application, changed the defendants from civil to military custody. “It is a case of arresting first and then thinking out the charge. I know of nothing more outrageous.” Mr. Justice Johnston: The complaint is that the charge is not indicated. Mr. Gavan Duffy, for the prosecution, “I do not want to occupy time unnecessarily. ’ ’ Mr. Justice Johnstou: My time is of small account compared with the liberty of men. From the material submitted no offence was committed. Prima facie they are perfectly innocent and illegally detained. I will adjourn the case to enable the superintendent to reply. Mr. Cronin, who will appear before the tribunal to-morrow, was allowed out on parole to visit his sick father.