THE DEATH IN LYTTELTON GAOL.

Lyttelton Times, Volume CI, Issue 11874, 25 April 1899, Page 6

THE DEATH IN LYTTELTON GAOL.

TO THE EDITOR. Sir, — Since I last called your attention to the circumstances which the late Dr Malone died under I am greatly surprised that, as far as I know, nothing has been done to make a full inquiry into the case, which I, in justice to the deceased man’s friends and the public, must demand. I expect, now, it only lies with me to lay the matter before the Minister of Justice, and hope our members will help me in the matter. As far as my own inquiries have gone, I am almost satisfied that the police carried out their regulations in such cases, but believe a little more activity should he used on similar occasions until better accommodation is provided. Dut I must state that I cannot fiee the doctor for not examining the deceased before ho was sent down to Lyttelton. My opinion is.that he was guilty of carelessness, and 1 believe the law says when a-man accepts a responsible position, and it is proved that by his careless actions the life of another is lost, he is liable to have to stand his trial for manslaughter. I believe if a qualified medical man had seen the deceased the morning of his removal, he would have been sent to the hospital. If the doctor had seen him and then given l his decision in favour of his removal,. I would not be justified in saying anything, but when he did not he should certainly bo called upon to account for not fulfilling the duties he, as a public servant, should fulfil. —I am, etc., JOSIAH MALONE.