JURY’S VERDICT OF MANSLAUGHTER IN AUCKLAND CASE

Wanganui Chronicle, 8 November 1950, Page 6

JURY’S VERDICT OF MANSLAUGHTER IN AUCKLAND CASE

AUCKLAND, Last Night (PA).— Ralph Smart, aged 43, labourer, who was charged with murdering Edward, Putaka on August 23, was found guilty of manslaughter by a jury in the Supreme Court tonight. The jury added a strong recommendation for mercy. The accused was remanded for sentence. The trial, which began on Monday, was conducted before Mr. Justice Callan. Accused was represented by Mr Trimmer and Mr. L. Brown, while Mr. S. Cleal and Mr. G. Speight prosecuted. "This is not a case of wanton and premediated killing, but the result of a desperate attempt by a lightly-built man to ward off the attack of a much stronger and heavier man. It is a case of self-defence,’’ said Mr. Trim m-er in his address to the jury. “Accused gave Putaka no provocation.” The jury retired at 5.10 p.m. and returned at ‘8.53 p.m. They also brought in a rider as follows: “That any serious complaints brought by tenants to the police regarding incompatibility among residents in apartment houses or flats be recorded, and the Police Department inform the local body concerned that they may investigate the layout and conveniences.’’