DEATH IN POLICE CELLS. WELLINGTON, January 29
John Coakley was arrested yesterday afternoon on a charge of having no lawful means of support. He was found dead in the police cells at the central station at 11.30 last night. Deceased was in a low condition when arrested.
At the inquest the medical evidence showed that death was caused by pneumonia hastened by drink, and a weak heart. Kate Coakley, wife of the deceased, stated that she had not been living with her husband, having- been legally separated' from him nearly four years ago on her own application. Deceased was always drunk, and failed to support her. There were three children as the issue of the marriage. Deceased had been feubject to fits aftor he took to drinking-. Ho was about 39 toars of age. Perßcant Phair. who saw deceased v, hon he was taken to the police station, said deceased v. as in a filthy condition — the worst he had c\-er seen a prisoner in. A verdict v. as returned in accordance with the medical evidence.
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Otago Witness, Issue 2812, 5 February 1908, Page 34
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176DEATH IN POLICE CELLS. WELLINGTON, January 29 Otago Witness, Issue 2812, 5 February 1908, Page 34
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