Extraordinary Denial By Second-hand Dealer

Manawatu Times, Volume 61, Issue 211, 7 September 1936, Page 10

Extraordinary Denial By Second-hand Dealer

HAS LICENSE TAKEN AWAY CHRISTCHURCH, Sept. 4. “Extraordinary,” commented Mr E. C. Lcvvcy, S.M., in the Magistrate’s Court, to-day, when John Tredrea, a licensed second-naud deaier, of Regent street, gave a Hat denial to a statement that he nad purcnased a gold ciiaiu. Defendant maintained his attitude, despite the xact that an independent witness who was in the shop at the time, said that the transaction nad been completed. The Magistrate ottered to adjourn the case ior a week to enaule Tredrea to consult a soiicitoi, but he refused to take advantage of the oiler and, in addition to being lined for a oreacii oil tno Actj iiis license was cancelled. Tredrea was charged with failing to enter the purchase of a gold emun in accoruance witn tnc provisions of the Second-Hand Dealers Act.

Evidence was given by complainant and by a witness, who said that he ivas in tho shop at tno time and heard the sale being completed. Tredrea did not cross-examine witness, but he elected to give evidence himseli. ”1 did not purchase the chain,” he said.

Magistrate: Extraordinary Defendant: No, it is not extraordinary 1 have been in Melbourne when they have sneaked jewellery into seeondnand sHojjs in the toes of old shoes and then accused dealers with receiving stolen property. The Magistrate: Arc yQU inferring that they are trying to put you out of ousinessi—No. Chief-Detective Dunlop: Are you alleging that tho police are “framing” you in this ease? —No. Well, what is your case? Denial of purchasing the chain? —Yes. Why snould these other men come hero and tell lies?—l don’t know what the idea is. “If he takes up this attitude I will have to ask for a cancellation of his license,’’ commented the chief detective. “1 know what is at the back of his mind. The only conclusion I can arrive at is that he thought tho chain was stolen.” The Magistrate (to defendant): Do you want to lose your license? —No, sir. “ 1 am considering whether 1 am going to take it away as a result of your astounding bcliaviuur here to-day,” remarked the Magistrate. “1 don’t wish to take a most drastic step, but you arc putting me in a very awkward position. I’ll adjourn the matter for a week to allow you to consult a solicitor.” “I’d rather go ou with it straight away,” said Tredrea. The Chief Detective: I think that in the interests of the public his license should be taken away. If he proves he is competent to hold ono later he can make a further application. The Magistrate imposed a fine of £2, and cancelled defendant’s license.