HOUSE OF ILL-FAME

Otago Daily Times, Issue 25338, 23 September 1943, Page 6

HOUSE OF ILL-FAME

PROPRIETRESS SENT TO PRISON (P.A.) WELLINGTON, Sept. 22.

After a hearing extending over three days in the Magistrate’s Court, Clara Hallam, an apartment house keeper, aged 58, was convicted on a charge of permitting 40 Abel Smith street to be used as a house of illfame, and Was sentenced by Mr J. L. Stout, S.M., to the maximum penalty of three months’ imprisonment and a fine of £IOO.

Senior Sergeant Paine said that during the last 12 months it had been necessary for the police to warn the defendant about the conduct of the house. There had been disturbances and arrests there. “ I have listened carefully to the case,” said the magistrate, “ and am satisfied that there is overwhelming evidence that the house in question is,, and for a considerable time "has been a brothel within the meariing of .the regulations. lam also satisfied that Mrs Hallam has allowed the premises to be used as a house- of ill-fame. There is no-reason why the maximum penalty should not be imposed.” Mr C. H. Weston, K.C., for the accused, said the evidence showed that Mrs Hallam had done her best. She might' have failed, but the most that could be said was that she might not have been efficient enough. She must appeal, counsel added. The magistrate: I don’t know about “must.” She may appeal. Mr Weston: She will appeal. The magistrate fixed security for appeal at £3O, plus the amount of the fine, and said the accused would have to remain in custody pending the decision of the Attorney-general.