THE ESCAPE OF JONATHAN ROBERTS.

Lyttelton Times, Volume LXX, Issue 8623, 26 October 1888, Page 5

THE ESCAPE OF JONATHAN ROBERTS.

PRISON OFFICERS DISRATED, PUBLIC FEELING IN LYTTELTON. Although Jonathan Roberts has ceased to be the cause of any excitement or interest to the general public, the same state of things does not appear to exist with regard to the gaol officials. During the past few days a rumour has been circulated' in Lyttelton to the effect that the Chief Gaoler, Mr B. L. O’Brien, and the officer who was in charge of the men at Eipa Island when Roberts escaped, had both been disrated, and evening the statement was confirmed! Mr O’Brien has received instructions to proceed to Hokitika, a second-class prison, and Mr T. Bell has, we understand, been reduced to the rank of warder. Mr O’Brien has been in Lyttelton for the past six years, during which time he has made a large circle of friends, and deep regret is expressed on.all sides at the turn affairs have taken. The matter was being freely discussed in Port yesterday, and the action of the Government has met with much adve«sa comment. A petition is being signed by residents asking that he may be allowed to remain in Lyttelton; while an indignation meeting is also spoken of. Before proceeding further, it should be stated that Mr O’Brien was at Lyttelton, and not at Ripa Island, when the escape took place, and the question frequently asked is, “ How could he be in two places at one time I 1” What makes the matter worse is the fact that Mr O’Brien suggested that Roberts should not be included in the Eipa Island squad, but should be kept in the gaol at work.

[Feb Pbess Association.] WELLINGTON, Oct. 25. , Mr G. M. Cleary has been appointed Gaoler at Lyttelton, vice Mr B. L. O’Srien, transferred to Hokitika.