ALLEGED ILLEGAL PRACTICE.

Otago Witness, Issue 3870, 15 May 1928, Page 31

ALLEGED ILLEGAL PRACTICE.

DR HENNESSY BEFORE THE COURT. THE ACCUSED ACQUITTED. WELLINGTON, May <>. The trial of Joseph Patrick Hennessy, a medical practitioner, of having unlawfully used an instrument on a woman with intent to procure a certain result, was opened to-day before Mr Justice Reed. Before proceeding with the hearing the judge directed that the names of the two principal witnesses, either in evidence or in the indictment, should not be published, nor any reference to their respective occupations or place of residenco, nor to anv matter that might point to their identity. An order was also made clearing the court. In answer to Mr Singer, for the accused, the girl concerned said she was considerably upset when taken to the police station and asked to make a statement. She did not remember any actual threat, but Detective M'Lennan said the best thing for her was to make a statement. She made a statement because she did not know how much they knew. M’Lennan said: “We know all about you. It’s no use you trying to bluff us.” M'Lennan also said that if she gave truthful evidence at the trial the police would suggest that she be pardoned for any part she had taken. She was to be given an indemnity. The principal male witness said that two detectives called at his house at 2.30 in the morning. They had a typewriter and two electric torches with them. It was a surprise visit, and not a very pleasant one. One torch illuminated the paper and the other the typewriter. It was suggested that if he did not make a statement he would be put in the dock. He had since received an indemnity against a prosecution.

Tho jury, after 30 minutes’ retirement, acquitted the accused.