OBSTRUCTING A CONSTABLE

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume LIII, Issue 122, 24 May 1919, Page 5

OBSTRUCTING A CONSTABLE

RETURNED SOLDIERS MUSI CON.

FORM TO THE LAW

(United Press Association!

CHRISTCHURCH, May 21

At the Magistrate’s Court to-day, before Mr McCarthy, K.M.. two men pleaded guilty to a constable in the execution of his duty. Sub-Inspector Mullauy stated that on (he evening of April 5 Constable Hurley Was arresting a man at Sydenham, when the two accused caught hold of him iiid so hampered his movements that the prisoner escaped, and was not subsequently caught. The accused, in excuse for their conduct, stated to the Court that the constable was arresting a returned soldier. “It is time, ’ said the Magistrate, “that a certain section of the public should get rid of the idea that the returned soldiers are to be allowed to do exactly as they like on their return. We fully appreciate what they have done for us while they have been away, but New' Zealand would be a pandemonium if the very few returned men who do misbehave themselves were allowed to do so without restraint If they commit offences they must receive jthe same treatment as ordinary civilians.” A fine of £5 was imposed in each case, the alternative being fixed at two months’ imprisonment.