MURDER TRIALS.

Temuka Leader, Issue 10583, 16 February 1924, Page 4

MURDER TRIALS.

HIGGINS CONDEMNED TO DEATH. The trial of John Christopher Higgins for murdering two boys at the Waikino School was concluded on Thursday. Commel for the accused urgtd that the crime was motiveless —that he did not know the nature and quality of the act. The jury after an hour and a quarter's deliberation found Higgins guilty. The foreman said: The jury wishes to express appreciation of the tact and courage of Mr Reed, schoolmaster, and also of the able manner in which the case had been presented.

Higgins was asked if he desired to say anything. His' counsel r-o----p!:c d:cd that ho did not. His Honour said: "After a careful tVial and an able defence. Higgins has been found guilty. It only remains for me to pass the sentence prescribed by law.” His Honour assumed the .black cap and passed sentence of death. Higgins showed ho emotion. THE TAIHAPE MURDER. WANGANUI, Feb. 11. The tr ; al of Anthony Moghan, charged with the murder of John Gemmell, at Taihape, on January 2nd. commenced in the Supreme Court this morning. Mr Gifford Marshall and Superintendent Pouliy appeared for the Crown and Mr T. M. Wilford and Mr J. Hus?ely for the defence.