A CASE WITHDRAWN.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 10418, 23 March 1912, Page 7

A CASE WITHDRAWN.

[Per Press Association'.] AUCKLAND, March 22. There were some unusual features connected with a case in which John Dennett was charged before tho Magistrate at the Police Court to-day with having at Mayfield on March 16 assaulted his stepson, Eric Reginald Monteith, by pointing a gun at him. Mr Napier appeared for defendant, and seated that Mrs Bennett, the prosecutrix, desired to have the charge withdrawn. Mr Bennett was a very responsible man, who occupied an important position under the Harbour Board. Defendant, who lived at Mayfield, arrived home from work after a lono; walk and found there was no one at home. In a. hall about a mile auay an entertainment was being held. Defendant took a gun and walked to the hall and called out his wife and stepson. According to Ins wife's story defendant then pointed the gnu at the boy, nlthougli the boy did not actually see the act. Mrs Bennett laid an information and regretted immediately that she had done ra. The wife had no desire to give, evidence against her husband and the police were agreeable to. the charge being withdrawn. SubInspector Hendry stated that there was no direct evidence against the accused other than that of his wife. Tf her month '.vcre closed he would have, little evidence to lay before his Worship, perhaps not sufficient to warrant n .conviction. Defendant's general reputation was excellent, and one felt sorry to see a man with such a record in such a position. Mr Napier remarked .that the couple, were now living together amicably. The son was very sorry for what had happened. The Magistrate permitted the cane to be withdrawn, defendant to pay witnesses' expenses.