Wife-Murder Charge

Sun (Auckland), Volume II, Issue 334, 20 April 1928, Page 9

Wife-Murder Charge

GRIGGS ON TRIAL EVIDENCE BY ACCUSED (United P. A. —By Telegraph — Copyright) Reed. 9.25 a.m. MELBOURNE, To-day. At the trial of Ronald Griggs, for the alleged murder of his wife, accused gave evidence that he was the Methodist minister at Omeo, but he had never been fully ordained. Three months after their marriage, he and his wife seemed to drift apart, and he became acquainted with Lottie Condon, but about five months elapsed before they became friendly. Before his wife departed for Tasmania, she suggested to him. they should obtain a divorce, but he asked her to go to Tasmania for six months, and during that time they would both think things over. His wife consented, adding that if she came back it would only be to collect her things, as she would never live with him again. Griggs continued that while his wife was away he became very fond of Lottie Condon, and wished to marry her. Griggs concluded his evidence by replying to a question whether his wife drank milk, that she never did, not even in her tea. The wife’s mother and several other witnesses then gave evidence that they had never known Mrs. Griggs to drink tea without milk. The evidence has concluded, and counsel have commenced their addresses.