THE WELLINGTON SHOOTING CASE.

Otago Witness, 1 June 1910, Page 26

THE WELLINGTON SHOOTING CASE.

SIX MONTHS' IMPRISONMENT. WELLINGTON, May 29. Robert Corkill, who on Monday last was found guilty of the manslaughter of Christopher Denis Smith, was put forward for sentence in the Supreme Court yesterday before the Chief Justice. Mr Wilford, who appeared for the accused, said the case brought out every point which could possibly be of interest. He could find no fault with the verdict. It hit the nail on the head. There was no doubt, however, that Corkill thought he was in danger when he fired the fatal shot. The man's character was above reproach, and he had reached the ago' of 68 years, consequently a long punishment would not have any extra- effect in; his case, and counsel was sure his Honor would not impose a heavy term of imprisonment. He left the case with confidence in his Honor's hands. " I stated when the jury found you guilty," his Honor said, " that I would pay attention to the recommendation of mercy. The gaoler tells me that you are in a very weak state of health, and that you can walk only a short way without stopping for breath. If I sentenced you to a long term it would simply mean sentencing you to death. I shall pass a. very lenient sentence on you." Continuing, his Honor said he desired to point out to those who were engaged in the same occupation as the prisoner (that of bailiff) that it was wrong to carry firearms. If any person attempted to interfere with or threaten a bailiff he was guilty of an assault, and in a case where such a person was found in the courts his Honor was sure that the magistrates would inflict punishment. There seemed to be a popular notion thai any assault was only committed when a blow was given. This was entirely wrong. If anybody ever attempted to hinder or threaten a bailiff, in the eye of the law he was guilty of an assault. Had the prisoner known this, he would not, in all probability, have armed, himself. The prisoner, however, had done wrong. His Honor said he regarded with horror any attempt on life, but considering the prisoner's state of health and the fact that he could not live long, he would be sentenced to the nominal penalty of six months' imprisonment without hard labour.