INITIAL PROSECUTION

Waikato Times, Volume 94, Issue 14582, 3 February 1921, Page 5

INITIAL PROSECUTION

UNDER THE NEW CRIMES ACT. By Telegraph.—Press Association. WELLINGTON, Wednesday. Edward W illiam Turner, who came to Wellington as second engineer ot the American steamer, Bell Hock, was to-day charged with (a) discharging a pistol at Owen Collins on the Q ueen ’ s Wharf with intent to do grievous bodily harm; (b) presenting a firearm at Collins; (c) discharging a firearm without reasonable cause; (d) being drunk while in possession of n firearm; and (e) carrying a revolver for other than a sufficient and proper purpose. The case was to have been heard a few days ago, but the principal witness, Collins, could not he found. He appeared to-day, hut his mind was a blank as to Hie occurrence on the day of Hie shooting. Ho said lie was so drunk he should have been locked up. Another witness said lie saw accused, in uniform, come through the wharf gates, Collins walking a few yards behind. Then Turner, who was noticeably drunk, presented the pistol at Collins’ feel, and twice fired. Corroborative evidence was given. The Bench held that the evidence did not show the intention of accused to do any harm, the action being apparently that of a drunken man. The first charge was dismissed; on the third a fine of £5 was imposed, and on the others convictions wore recorded without penalties. Turner was also ordered to pay the costs in charges b. c. d. and e. These are the first charges to he laid in the Dominion under the new Arms Act.