AN EXTRAORDINARY CASE.

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume LXVI, Issue 17571, 15 May 1919, Page 5

AN EXTRAORDINARY CASE.

THE CHIEF JUSTICE SURPRISED

(Per Press Association.) WELLINGTON, May 14

At the Supreme Court, Arthur James Ford and "-Thomas Evans, employed as nightwatchmen at the Defence Stores, Buckl"! Street, were charged with the theft of a variety of Articles from the stores. Evans pleaded not guilty. Ford pleaded guilty to the theft of articles found iv a bag he was carrying when, arrested. Among the witnesses for the prosecution was Ford, who explained that he was under the influence of liquor on the night in question, and could remember little about the proceedings. Apparently the goods exhibited in Court had been taken by him into the yard. Evans then cleared out with some of the goods, among which was a roll of damask cloth.

Counsel for the defence said that after the evidence given by Ford, he did not intend calling any witnesses.

The jury returned, after half an hour's absence, and asked the Chief Justice whether an accomplice in a case of theft could be held guilty. His Honour replied affirmatively. The jury, after another hour's absentie, returned with a verdict of not guilty.

His Honour jaSked if the jury understood the charge he had given them.

The foreman. Yes, sir.

His Honour: I can only say it is the most extraordinary case I ever had in my life, and I have beon twenty years on the bench.