ONE WOMAN FOP TRIAL ANOTHER DISCHARGED

Wanganui Chronicle, 5 July 1950, Page 6

ONE WOMAN FOP TRIAL ANOTHER DISCHARGED

Charge Of Manslaughter; Young Woman’s Death AUCKLAND, Last Night (PA)—The charge against Margaret Josephine Ryan, aged 34, domestic, of unlawfully killing Mrs Joan Phyllis Jack, aged 26, on April 3, thereby committing manslaughter, was dismissed by Mr J. Morling, S.M., in a reserved decision today. On the same charge Louisa Maria Clark, aged 62, domestic, pleaded not guilty and was committed to the Supreme Court for trial.

Mr R. K. Trimmer and Mr L Brown appeared for Ryan and Clark.' At the conclusion of evidence for the prosecution, which was heard on Monday, Mr Trimmer submitted that a prima facie case had not been established against Ryan. Mr Morling said he would adjourn the matter until today for consideration.

"After considering the evidence and submissions of Mr Trimmer for Ryan, I have come to the conclusion that there is not sufficient "evidence to justify sending Ryan for trial,” said Mr Morling today. “In my opinion a jury could not come to the conclusion that she had caused the death of Mrs Jack, and she is accordingly discharged.”

The other defendant, Clark, when asked if she had anything to say, made a statement from the flooz of the court. In this she said: "I have no idea what happened to her She was only in the hous j minute or two at the most. Myself, I did nothing at all to her; nor did Margaret. It was a very great shock to both of us. I do not know where she had been before coming to our place. I had nothing to do with this. I do not remember ever seeing her before. I feel sure she is a- stranger to me. I have heard the evidence of Dr Gilmore and Dr. Lynch, and I can only say that I used no instrument on the girl, and did nothing t° canse her death.” Bail was refused.