POLICE OFFICER RETIRES.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LVIII, Issue 17852, 5 August 1921, Page 6

POLICE OFFICER RETIRES.

INSPECTOR JOHNSTON.

PUBLIC PRESENTATION

Inspector James Johnston, of the Auckland police force, who is retiring on superannuation, was tendered a fare-.v.'J by the local members of the force in the Oddfellows' Hall, Lome Street, last evening. Mr. V. R. Meredith, the Crown Prosecutor, presided, and the guests was Mr. J. Cullen, ex-Commissioner of Police.

In proposing the toart of Johnston, Mr. Meredith said that the retiring officer had spent, practically all fca lifa in the service of the State. Unfortunately for Auckland he was *. \ going to live here, but for family was returning to Canterbury. The c.:.:Zens of Auckland desirjd to recogr.:se the seVvices he had rendered to the country and to pre tangible expression to then appreciation. Inspector Johnston had served in the police for 45 years, having joined as a constable in Canterbury. Alter being posted to various parts of the South Island he had come to Auckland as sub-inspector and after a short period is Gl3 bo me had !r slurried here to the position of inspector. In re tiring f ir - -Johnston left behind him a reputation for efficiency and kindness to everyone. He would be remembered not only for efficiency but also for his out, standing courted. Miv Meredith then presented Mr Johnston with 3 wallet containing a cheque for a substantial amount from citizens, and for his wife and daughters several pieces of jewellery and other gifts. Replying. Mr. Johnston said his retirement would take effect from the end of the year, but the department had been good enough to grant him ax months' leave. He referred generally to the efficient work of the police force, and said his motto had been " Do unto others as you wotdd they should do unto von," buthe could hardly say the police could taka the Bible injunction that " when a inan smite ye on one cheek torn the other." He concluded by narrating several amusing reminiscences. ill". A. Moody, in proposing a toast, said the police force was fair, honest, and just. Mr. J. Cullen referred to Inspector Johnston as a " white" man. A number of musical items were rendered by the Mimi Diggers and other entertainers.