ILLICIT SPIRITS

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 77, Issue 109, 10 May 1934, Page 5

ILLICIT SPIRITS

A SOUTHLAND STILL CHARGE AGAINST FARMERS [ Per Press Association. ] INVERCARGILL, May 9. The hearing of evidence was concluded in the Supreme Court to-day in the case against William Allan Alexander Mcßae, farmer at Dunsdale, and William Robertson Mcßae, his son, charged with unlawfully making or being concerned in the unlawful manufacture of spirits. Mr. Eustace Russell, in opening the case for the defence, submitted that there was nothing to connect accused with the. still. The prosecution had laid emphasis on tracks from Mcßae’s farm to the still. Evidence would be called to show that there were as many tracks leading from the still to neighbouring property. Evidence of crockery showed no connection between McRae’s and the still, since it was of a make commonly found all over Southland. Geoffrey St. Vincent Keddell, licensed surveyor, said that a lame marc at the farm was ridden by a Mr. MeEachran ahead of witness, and with the reins falling loose she turned back towards the farm and did not make in any definite direction. Near the old still another test with the mare was made. When given her head she wandered off from the way to the still and turned off to the edge of the bush. When released, the mare which was too lame to be used much, made off in the direction of the homestead. Counsel will address the Court tomorrow.