TEN CHARGES PREFERRED

Taranaki Daily News, 8 January 1927, Page 15

TEN CHARGES PREFERRED

MAN COMMITTED FOR TRIAL. Ten offences against boys whose ages ranged between- 13 and 15 years were alleged against Robert Thomas Samuel Brown, who appeared on remand in the Children’s Court at New Plymouth yesterday. He is a cable joiner in the employ of the Post and Telegraph Department and all the acts complained of were said to have taken place in the municipal swimming baths recently. Accused, who was represented by counsel, pleaded not guilty, and was committed for trial to the next session of the Supreme Court at New Plymouth. Bail was allowed in self £250 and two sureties of £250, or one of £5OO. When Brown was arrested at the baths on December 29 and taken to the police station he said, according to the evidence of Sergeant Martin, that there must have been some mistake and that he knew nothing about the charge mentioned. He made no reply when the information was read to him and neither did he say anything when told that there would probably be other allegations. Brown gave instruction in swimming and frequented the baths. The boys’ stories were to the effect that he had tampered with them in the dressing sheds. One of them complained to the custodian and the result was that the police made inquiries.