SENSATION IN POLICE COURT

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume LXI, 26 June 1926, Page 6

SENSATION IN POLICE COURT

MAGISTRATE'S ALLEGED BTAS ASKED BY COUNSEL TO VACATE BENCH (United Press Association.) AUCKLAND. June 25. There was a sensation in the Police Court, when Mr R. A. Singer, appearing for a woman charged with assaulting .John Henry Hannan, asked Mr Poynton, S.M., to vacate the Bench and let one of the other three Magistrates take the case. 'Tn consequence of some remarks passed by your Worship,' 'said counsel "it seems you have some leaning—l will not say to what side." Mr Poynton interrupted that he had no leaning toward anyone. Mr Siirger said ho had a feeling that Mr Poynton might be what might he called biased. Mr Poynton: "If T am biased before the ease is heard, I am unlit to he a Magistrate." He added that he was a friend of Hannan's. and admired him in many ways, but he had given judgment against him and would do it again if necessary! After a prolonged argument the case was taken by Mr Poynton. AUCKLAND, This Day. After further passages between counsel and the Magistrate (Mr Poynton) in the case where a woman was charged with assaulting John Henry Hannan, the Magistrate said he had 'decided to hear the information. The case was proceeded with, defendant being convicted. At the request of counsel the fine was made £5 In to allow of an appeal.