Alleged Tote-Betting.

Woodville Examiner, Volume XXII, Issue 3869, 4 May 1906, Page 2

Alleged Tote-Betting.

A LOCAL C^SE. Before Messrs Burnett and Harris, Js.P., this morning, a man named Coleman was charged under section 4 of “ The Gaming and Lotteries Act, 1894,” with laying totalisator odds with one Johnßrosnan. There were two informations. Sergt. Cruickshank prosecuted. Defendant was unrepresented by counsel. Sergt. Cruickshanka stated that defendant was charged that he accepted a wager at totalisator odds of £1 on Jolly Friar in the Thompson Handicap, and 10s on Glenowlet in the Bailway Handicap at Wellington. He called John Brosnan, settler, Hnkanui. This witness could not clearly remember anything about the alleged bets. His memory had altogether failed him, but he was positive he had not given any money to Coleman. All the efforts of Sergt. Cruickshanks could not refresh the witness’s memory, and the attempt had finally to be given up. Daniel Doyle deposed to overhearing defendant and Brosnan discussing wagers, and understood Brosnan to say that he had made wagers on certain horses. Witness did not know what horses wore backed, and saw no money pass. Also heard Brosnan ask afterwards for his dividend. Constable Brosnahan gave evidence as to arresting Coleman, on whom he found racebonks and newspaper cuttings relating to racing. Brosnan gave the information regarding the wagers. The Bench dismissed the charge without calling on defendant. They expressed grave dissatisfaction with the way in which Brosnan gave his evidence and disallowed his expenses as a witness.