DOUBLE AFFLICTION

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXII, Issue 22261, 8 November 1935, Page 16

DOUBLE AFFLICTION

TUBERCULOSIS AND OPIUM CHINESE FURTHER REMANDED The case of a Cliineso with the double affliction of nn incurable disease and an addiction to opium was considered by Mr. Wyvern Wilson, S.M., in tho Police Court yesterday, when Chan Fun, aged 48, fruiterer, appeared on remand on a charge of being found in possession of prepared opium. Accused, who was represented by Mr. Dickson, plcadod guilty at his earlier appearance, and was remanded to allow medical evidence to bo called. Dr. T. W. J. Johnson said ho had examined accused «®d found him to bo suffering from extensive bilateral chronic pulmonary tuberculosis. It ivas an incurable complaint. Ho was also nn opium addict, and stated ho had been advised to tako up opium smoking 16 years ngo when ho contracted the complaint, to ease tho pain. It had become a habit and witness did not think lie could stop. Ho was a danger to others, as the disease was infectious. Tho magistrate remanded accused until December 4, saying ho would allow an opportunity for him to be sent to a home or shelter. It was useless to fino accused. He had been treated leniently on previous occasions on account of his physical condition, but some pormanent arrangement must be come to. He*must bo sent to somo place where, if ho got opium, it was in limited quantities. At present ho or his countrymen had to find money for fines periodically and ho then resumed his habits. Ho would agreo, as an alternative to accused entering a homo, that ho should bo sent back to China.