SUPREME COURT.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 8618, 9 May 1906, Page 3

SUPREME COURT.

CRIMINAL SESSIONS. Wednesday, May 9. The criminal sessions of the Supreme Court were resumed this morning, before his Honor Mr Just-ice Denmston, Mr T. W. Stringer, Crown Prosecutor, appearing to conduct the cases for the Crown. THE CASE OF JOHN ROSS. In reference to the case of John Ross, in which the jury disagreed on the previous day, Mr Stcjnger stated that he would suggest that the new trial should be postponed until the next sessions. It would probably be impossible to select a jury from tlie small number not called at the previous trial. Mr Irwin, for the defence, was agreeable: to the proposal. His Honor said that the postponement seemed the only course open, and the case would bo adjourned as proposed. The charge against Maurice Heslip of abashing in keeping a common gaming house, namely, the place which Ross was alleged to hare kept, was also adjourned. ALLEGED CARNAL KNOWLEDGE. David Gunn was indicted for, that in the .months of November and December, 1905, at Chrietchureh, he did unlawfully carnally know a girl over the age of twelve and under the aga of sixteen years. Tie accused, who was defended by Mr Donnelly, pleaded " not guilty." A DEAF JUROR. The jury retired at one o'clock, but returned at about two o'clock with a most peculiar announcement to make. It had just been discovered that one of the jurons was stone deaf, and had not heard a word of the evidence. Of course, no verdict could be arrived at Ia Jft® ; circumstances. His Honor said it was a most peculiar occurrence, and the first of its kind that had happened in New Zealand, to the best of his knowledge, although there had been similar cases in England. Had the man's deafness been discovered before the jury retired he ooukl have directed, with the consent of both «rid«s, that the case should be tried »y the eleven jurors. The jury Having retired, however, that course could not be taken. He was sorry, but the only course open was to discharge the jury without a verdict. There was no alternative. The jury was accordingly discharged. J,ne case against accused wag then adjourned un±U Monday next.