Serious Offence Alleged Against Maori

Manawatu Times, Volume 59, Issue 248, 24 October 1934, Page 3

Serious Offence Alleged Against Maori

SUPREME COURT TRIAL On a charge of indecently assaulting a girl under 16 years of age, with an alternative charge of assault, a Maori named Erncra Euihi (Ted Lewis) is standing his trial at the Palmerston North Supreme Court, The offences were alleged to have occurred at Ivuku (Ohau) on July G last. The following jurymen were chosen to hear the cvidcnco and return a verdict:—Messrs C. "Woods (foreman), I). W. McDowell, C. Boyce, S. V. Somerville. M. H. Boyce, it. W. Mitclicll, J. 11. Howe, R. P. W. Garner, P. Hearsey, C. J. Bridle and H. W. Johnson. Accused was defended by Mr W. P. Rollings, of Wellington, while Mr 11. R. Cooper, Crown Prosecutor, conducted the Grown case. Evidence was given by the girl, who is a step-daughter of accused, and other witnesses as to the naturo of the offcnco alleged and when it happened. Accused also entered the witness-box to deny that the offence ever occurred. He said ho was li t years of age, had married when 19 years old, and had eight children (five boys and three girls). He and one of tho witnesses for tho Crown had been bad friends for 12 months as a result of a bull going into that witness’s paddock. To Mr Cooper accused said that the girl had been treated ns one of his own and had no reason to hate him. Her evidence of misconduct on his part was utterly false and lie could not understand why she should make such a charge against him. Mrs Lewis, wife of accused, said the girl had never complained to her about her husband. Evidence was also given as to accused’s good character. Tho Court then adjourned till 10 a.m. [this morning, when counsel will adj dress tho jury.