AN HABITUAL CRIMINAL.

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume L, Issue 12145, 8 September 1908, Page 5

AN HABITUAL CRIMINAL.

INDULGENT TREATMENT AND THE

RESULT,

(Per Press Association.)

NEW PLYMOUTH, September 7. Archibald 'McNeil was the first prisoner to be confined' in the habitual criminals' wing of the local goal, and was there by himself for about eight months, no other offender being sent to that wing. During that time solitary confinement so pz-eyed upon his mind that he implored the gaolers to be allowed out.

In accordance with the provisions of the Habitual Criminals Act lie was then sent to a farm at Bell Block, where he was very kindly treated. He was on probation, having to report himself to the police once a month. Had he remained on the farm for two years he would have been set completely at liberty, but the criminal instincts in him awoke again, and he "cleared out.'" Since doing go he is alleged to havo committed further offences, and is no-v liable to arrest. ' .'., ,

The case seems to bo simply one of mistaken kindness. The local'gaoler, Mr Millington, told a " Herald " representative to-day how the order for MoNeil's release had been obtained. The prisoner _ petitioned the Governor for some respite from his harsh confinement. The petition was referred to Judge Cooper, who visited the gaol and inquired into the case. Then the matter was referred to a consultative commit tee, consisting of the local Magistrate and the visiting Justices. This committee sent to the Governor a recommendation, and, in accordance with this, McNeil was released on probation for two years. The duty then fell on Mr Millington of finding work for the man, and he got him a billet on a Bell Block farm.

Tne prison authorities had no power to arrest McNeil after his escape until one month should have expired, for i:e was only required to report himself once a month. The month would have expired next Friday, but in tho meanwhile a warrant has been issued for the man's arrest on other charges.