PROHIBITION IN U.S.A.

Waikato Times, Volume 98, Issue 16174, 27 December 1924, Page 5

PROHIBITION IN U.S.A.

ANTI-SALOON PRESIDENT.

RELEASED FROM GAOL.

OTHER CHARGES PREFERRED

(Australian and N.Z. Cable Assn.) NEW YORK, December 25.

As the result of representations by powerful church influences, William Anderson, formerly superintendent of the Anti-Saloon League, has been released from goal, after undergoing nine months' imprisonment, part of a ►sentence of "one to two years" for forgery. Anderson, on stepping outside the prison gates, was re-arrested, pursuant to warrants charging him with larceny and extortion. His .friends will undoubtedly furnish bail to secure his temporary liberty. Members of the Anti-Saloon League express confidence that the larceny and extortion charges will be speedily dismissed, asserting that much evidence in these matters was adduced during the forgery trial. Nevertheless, it is scarcely expected that Anderson will-ever return to Anti-Saloon work, since it is known that one of the factors influencing his parole was a promise never to return to the work of that organisation; Anderson further promised to cease his attacks on the Courts and prosecuting officers in connection with his conviction. Nevertheless it is reported that the Anti-Saloon League has offered to re-employ Anderson, deeming his aggressive and often vitriolic methods particularly effective in promoting the ideal of prohibition. ■ Anti-Saloon officials declined to confirm or deny the offer, but one official gave an inferential opinion. He said the present Board of the League is composed of honest men, and will deal with the problem as honest men and Christians.

The charge on which Anderson was convicted was of forgery and dividing commissions with the solicitor administering the funds of the AntiSaloon League. The conviction was gained after a bitter legal fight. Many clergymen gave evidence as to Anderson's integrity. RUM-RUNNERS CAPTURED. (Australian and N.Z. Cable Assn.) NEW YORK, December 25. The British schooner Petara has been captured by coastguards after a chase by cutters extending over -'io miles. Six thousand cases, which were alleged to contain liquor, were seized, and six arrests were made. Coastguards also captured three motor boats and seized liquor valued at over £125,000. Twelve arrests were made in this instance.