SUPREME COURT

Hokitika Guardian, 31 May 1935, Page 6

SUPREME COURT

THREE MEN SENTENCED

(Per Press Association, Copyright)

HAMILTON, May 31

A sentence of four years hard labour, was imposed by Mr Justice Reed at the Supreme Court to-day on Charles Henry Price, aged 57, who pleaded guilty *'to incest.. Accused made a long statement from the dock stating lie had reared eleven children and had experienced considerable hardship and till health, as a result of the depression. If allowed freedom, he promised to rehabilitate himself.

In passing sentence, lii s Honour said lie looked upon the case as very bad indeed, pointing out that the gross behaviour of accused had been forced on girls accompanied by threats, He was the natural guardian ot children and had taken advantage of liis position.

Having been found guilty of indecent .assault, Harold' Kelly, aged 45, was sentenced to eighteen months’ hard labour. Counsel pleaded that drink was the cause of Kelly’a downfall. His Honour emphasised that children must be protected, and although the case was iiot fib'e worst of the type, it was bad enough. Still protesting his innocence, Robert 'Mclntyre, aged 30, found guilty of receiving a stolen horse, appeared ior sentence. His Honour stated that, like the jury, he disbelieved the story of accused. Strictly speaking, Mclntyre wa,s an habitual criminal, and would probably be declared such if he appeared in court again. He bad ability and it was a pity he had not devoted it to an honest life. He. was sentenced to twelve months' hard labour.