“NOT ARBUCKLE ALONE."

Star (Christchurch), Issue 16553, 12 October 1921, Page 6

“NOT ARBUCKLE ALONE."

SOCIAL STANDARDS ON TRIAL. SAN FRANCISCO, September 28. Judge Lazarus, after hearing the evidence in the Arbuckle case, summed up as follows: “Wo are not trying Arbuckle alone. In one sense we are trying ourselves—our moral and pre-sent-day social standards. The question is universal, and larger than the guilt of this unfortunate Virginia Rappe’s death was the culmination of an orgy held in a leading hotel, and not repressed by the management. Apparently it is a common thing. WEAKNESS OF PROSECUTION. “ I had hoped for a complete revelation of the facts in this court, to give the world the opportunity to ascertain the guilt or innocence of the defendant. The prosecution admits having submitted only enough to warrant holding the defendant. The testimony heard shows that there were let us charitably say—festivities, men and women coming and going. The witnesses were unable to identify the occupants of tho hotel at any particular hour. Much liquor was drunk, and the complaining witness in particular was inebriated. RELEASED ON BAIL. “ I feel bound by the Grand Jury, which voted for manslaughter nfter hearing more evidence than was submitted here. I find enough in the defendant’s conduct to warrant his trial for manslaughter.” Arbuckle was released on his own recognisances of 5000 dollars, deposited when the previous charge of manslaughter was returned bv the Grand Jury. This makes two charges of manslaughter against him. KISSES AND HOOTS. Though Arbuckle has been released, feeling still runs high--regarding his cose in San Francisco. Judge Lazarus handed to the police a dozen letters threatening his life as a result of his decision dismissing tne murder charges, and Police-Chief O’Brien is furnishing a bodyguard for th© judge until tho resentment subsides. Meanwhile “Fatty” returned to Los Angeles, where a great crowd greeted him. Several show girls showered him with kisses, while others hissed and hooted. A woman created a diversion by mounting oil a stand and denouncing Arbuckle and the crowd for cheering him There were several list lights, while “ Fatty ” drove away accompanied by his former wife, with whom he has been reconciled.