OBSTRUCTING A CONSTABLE

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXVIII, Issue 21037, 23 November 1931, Page 12

OBSTRUCTING A CONSTABLE

YOUNG MAN'S EXCUSE. "FATHER'S FIRST GRANDSON." A novel excuse for obstructing a constable when apprehended in Cliristchurch last week for riding a bicycle without a light was given by Henry Victor Ray, an ■ upholsterer, aged 23, to the police. It was stated that his first son had been born that day and that although he had four married brothers he was the first to present his father with a grandson. Ray was charged in the Magistrate's Court next day with obstructing a constable while in the execution of his duty and with cycling at night without a light. It was stated that the constable was on duty and he saw Ray cycling with another man without lights. Accused would .not give the constable any particulars, and when the constable endeavoured to find out what defendant was hiding under his coat he struck the constable a light blow on the arm. Accused had a " square rigger" of beer under his coat. It was not a very serious case. Senior-Sergeant Fox stated that he subsequently saw defendant, who made the explanation given above. " Well, I suppose he can expect to be fined twice as much," remarked the magistrate. Counsel for accused submitted that the reasons for his lapse had been sufficiently explained. For obstructing the constable Ray was fined 20s and costs, and for cycling without a light was fined 10s and costs.