THE POLICE FORCE OF THE COLONY (ANNUAL REPORT ON).

Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives, 1904 Session I, H-16

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1904. NEW ZEALAND.

THE POLICE FORCE OF THE COLONY (ANNUAL REPORT ON).

Presented to both Houses of the General Assembly by Command of His Excellency.

The Commissioner of Police to the Hon. the Ministeb of Justice. Sib, — Police Department, Commissioner's Office, 7th June, 1904. I have the honour to submit for your information my first annual report on the Police Force of the colony (together with the criminal statistics) for the year ended 31st March last. Strength of Force. On the 31st March last the strength of the Force was 626 of all ranks, being an increase of 13 during the year. The total is made up as follows : Inspectors, 8 ; Sub-Inspectors, 4 ; sergeantsmajor, 1; sergeants, 58; constables, 528; probationers, 6 ; detectives, 21. In addition to above, there were 4 police surgeons, 4 matrons, 22 district constables, 11 Native constables, and 71 horses. Stations. New stations have been formed at Porangahau, and Brooklyn (Wellington), and district constables have been placed at Whangamomona and Karamea. Casualties. The casualties (Appendix C) have been : Retired under the Police Provident Fund Act, 10; resigned, 9 ; died, 4 ; dismissals, 2 : total, 25. This is 14 less than in the preceding year. Criminal Statistics. The criminal statistics (Appendix A) deal with all offences reported to the police during the year ended the 31st December last, and show an aggregate net increase of 965 on the figures of 1902, but this does not represent any marked increase on a population basis, as in 1902 the proportion of offences to the population was 235 per cent., whereas in 1903 it was 236 per cent. The principal increases were: Assaults, common, 50 ; assaults on police, 20; breaches of the peace, 133; disobeyance of Court and summonses, 62 ; disorderly and riotous conduct, 86; drunkenness, 546; failing to support parents and relatives, 22; false declarations, 20; false pretences, 53 ; illegally taking fish, 44 ; illegally on premises, 40; indecent exposure or behaviour, 36; obscene language, 124 ; obstructing thoroughfares, 70; sly - grog selling, 98; soliciting prostitution, 28 ; stowaways, 45 ; theft by servants, 22 ; vagrancy, 97. The principal decreases were : Arson, 45 ; burglary, 109 ; cruelty to animals, 40; deserting families, 101; deserters from ships, 25 ; disobeying orders on ships, 46 ; forgery and uttering, 23; furious driving or riding, 44 ; gaming offences, 28 ; theft, undeseribed, 69; theft of cattle or horses, 30; theft from dwellings, 40. Cases of lunacy and escaping from lunatic asylums are not included in the criminal returns. Serious Crimes. It is important and satisfactory to observe the marked decrease (203) in the number of serious crimes during the year ended the 31st December last, as compared with the preceding year. This may to a certain extent be accounted for by the stringent carrying-out of the recent important amendments to the Police Offences Act dealing with vagrants. " The percentage of arrests for serious crimes has also considerably improved, which tends to demonstrate the general efficiency of both the preventive and detective branches of the Department. I—H. 16.

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The decreases in serious crimes and percentage of arrests are as follows : —

Percentage of arrests in 1902 ... ... ... ... ... 61-68 1903 ... ... ... ... ... 73-65 I regret to report the, so far, unsuccessful result of investigations carried out to trace the man wanted on warrant for murder at Te Awaite. A reward has been offered for information leading to his arrest, and search is still being continued. The percentage of arrests and summonses to all cases reported, irrespective of class, continues to show slight improvement, the figures being 94-45 for 1902 and 95 - 53 for 1903. The number of indecent and sexual offences shows an increase of 56 as compared with the preceding year, the numbers being 303 in 1902 and 359 in 1903, a prosecution being instituted in 353 cases. Deunkenness. During the year there was an increase of 546 in the number of persons charged with drunkenness as compared with the preceding year, but this increase ia no doubt due to the increased population and continued prosperity of the colony. The number charged with this offence in 1902 was 8,269 (7,405 males and 864 females), and in 1903 8,815 (7,977 males and 838 females). From the following table it will be observed that 4085 per cent, of the males and 73 - 03 per cent, of the females had previous convictions recorded against them, and 10-41 per cent, of the males were not permanent residents in the colony.

Return showing the Number of Persons charged with Drunkenness during the Year 1903, and the Number of Previous Convictions against same, as far as known.

The obtaining of prohibition orders against persons addicted to drink does not seem to remedy the existing evil, and it is evident some special steps will have to be adopted with the view of redeeming those men and women who have become a prey to habits of intemperance and dissipation.

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. ifR 2 The decreases in serious crimes and percentage of arrests a: •e as follows : — 191 19. 1903. Crimes. Number of Number , Offences m all offenoes wl^ed ests -P°^a. Number o£ all Offences reported. Number of Offences in which Arrests resulted. Arson Assault and robbery ... Burglary Forgery and uttering Murder 64 52 449 99 7 8 10 29 5 61 19 48 47 189 340 90 76 7 5 8 3 9 7 29 22 5 1 16 44 213 73 4 3 7 22 1 „ attempted Rape Receiving stolen property Shooting with intent 723 446 520 383 Percentage of arrests in 1902 ... ... ... ... ... 61-68 1903 73-65 I regret to report the, so far, unsuccessful result of investigations carried out to trace the man wanted on warrant for murder at Te Awaite. A reward has been offered for information leading to his arrest, and search is still being continued. The percentage of arrests and summonses to all cases reported, irrespective of class, continues to show slight improvement, the figures being 94 - 45 for 1902 and 95 - 53 for 1903. The number of indecent and sexual offences shows an increase of 56 as compared with the preceding year, the numbers being 303 in 1902 and 359 in 1903, a prosecution being instituted in 353 cases. Deunkenness. During the year there was an increase of 546 in the number of persons charged with drunkenness as compared with the preceding year, but this increase is no doubt due to the increased population and continued prosperity of the colony. The number charged with this offence in 1902 was 8,269 (7,405 males and 864 females), and in 1903 8,815 (7,977 males and 838 females). From the following table it will be observed that 4085 per cent, of the males and 73 - 03 per cent, of the females had previous convictions recorded against them, and 10-41 per cent, of the males were not permanent residents in the colony. Retukn showing the Numbbk of Persons charged with Drunkenness during the Year 1903, and the Number of Previous Convictions against same, as far as known. Not Pre- One I're- Two Pre- Three Pre- Pour Pre- Five Pre- , Over Five o"S5>ti viouslyCon- vious Cow- vious Con- vious Con- vious Con- vious Con- Previous Totals. o victed. viclion. victions. victions. viotione. victions. Convict'ns. » Sg °&< D ' s *»< ;t - ! I fllS.9 District. Not 1're- One viouslyCon- vious victed. victj M. F. M. Pre- Two Pre- Three Pre- Pour PreCon- vious Con- vious Con- vious ConLon. victions. victions. viotione. i P. I M. P. M. P. j M. . F. M. V. M. F. j M. P. Auckland, Waikalo, 729 andBay of Islands : Napier and East 368 Coast Wanganui and West 752 Coast Wellington and 1,282 Marlborough Nelson and West- 197 land Canterbury and 856 North Otago Dunedin .. 431 Southland .. 103 34 21 81 61 16<J 85 130 314 9 95 5 44 ! 5 3 j 42 3 29 ] 1 6 64 i 1 31 1 40 147 17 86 6 37 I .7 17 1 17 .. 44 11 19 26 7 32 9 3 21 129 65 42 '• 99 81 1,222 8 632 .. jl,043 67 2,004 150 40 39 223 124 3 14 388 6 38 33 2 30 270 81 36 19 I ... 11 .. 21 164 j 25 125 11 7 77 I 8 54 8 3 82 I 1.... 27 ■ .5 88 640 60 407 '37 ■ , . ■.. ■ . 9 1 71 9 33 9 1? .. ■247'. '38 5 68 22 21 3 22 9 1 3 219 71 22 3 j 274 90 1,773 59 769 13 2601 321 j7,977 13 216 133 j 24 32 106 145 21 ;■ ■ ■■; ■ ■■ 4,718 226 1,115 200 68 650 838 831 The obtaining of p the existing evil, and of redeeming those in dissipation. irohibitior it is evii en and \ orders against person Lent some special ste ■omen who have be& is addicte ips will '. ome a p: id to ( have rey t> Inn to > hi : doe >e ai ,bits is not seer lopted wii of intern r i t< ih > remedj ihe view >en ,nee anc

. ifR 2 The decreases in serious crimes and percentage of arrests a: •e as follows : — 191 19. 1903. Crimes. Number of Number , Offences m all offenoes wl^ed ests -P°^a. Number o£ all Offences reported. Number of Offences in which Arrests resulted. Arson Assault and robbery ... Burglary Forgery and uttering Murder 64 52 449 99 7 8 10 29 5 61 19 48 47 189 340 90 76 7 5 8 3 9 7 29 22 5 1 16 44 213 73 4 3 7 22 1 „ attempted Rape Receiving stolen property Shooting with intent 723 446 520 383 Percentage of arrests in 1902 ... ... ... ... ... 61-68 1903 73-65 I regret to report the, so far, unsuccessful result of investigations carried out to trace the man wanted on warrant for murder at Te Awaite. A reward has been offered for information leading to his arrest, and search is still being continued. The percentage of arrests and summonses to all cases reported, irrespective of class, continues to show slight improvement, the figures being 94 - 45 for 1902 and 95 - 53 for 1903. The number of indecent and sexual offences shows an increase of 56 as compared with the preceding year, the numbers being 303 in 1902 and 359 in 1903, a prosecution being instituted in 353 cases. Deunkenness. During the year there was an increase of 546 in the number of persons charged with drunkenness as compared with the preceding year, but this increase is no doubt due to the increased population and continued prosperity of the colony. The number charged with this offence in 1902 was 8,269 (7,405 males and 864 females), and in 1903 8,815 (7,977 males and 838 females). From the following table it will be observed that 4085 per cent, of the males and 73 - 03 per cent, of the females had previous convictions recorded against them, and 10-41 per cent, of the males were not permanent residents in the colony. Retukn showing the Numbbk of Persons charged with Drunkenness during the Year 1903, and the Number of Previous Convictions against same, as far as known. Not Pre- One I're- Two Pre- Three Pre- Pour Pre- Five Pre- , Over Five o"S5>ti viouslyCon- vious Cow- vious Con- vious Con- vious Con- vious Con- Previous Totals. o victed. viclion. victions. victions. viotione. victions. Convict'ns. » Sg °&< D ' s *»< ;t - ! I fllS.9 District. Not 1're- One viouslyCon- vious victed. victj M. F. M. Pre- Two Pre- Three Pre- Pour PreCon- vious Con- vious Con- vious ConLon. victions. victions. viotione. i P. I M. P. M. P. j M. . F. M. V. M. F. j M. P. Auckland, Waikalo, 729 andBay of Islands : Napier and East 368 Coast Wanganui and West 752 Coast Wellington and 1,282 Marlborough Nelson and West- 197 land Canterbury and 856 North Otago Dunedin .. 431 Southland .. 103 34 21 81 61 16<J 85 130 314 9 95 5 44 ! 5 3 j 42 3 29 ] 1 6 64 i 1 31 1 40 147 17 86 6 37 I .7 17 1 17 .. 44 11 19 26 7 32 9 3 21 129 65 42 '• 99 81 1,222 8 632 .. jl,043 67 2,004 150 40 39 223 124 3 14 388 6 38 33 2 30 270 81 36 19 I ... 11 .. 21 164 j 25 125 11 7 77 I 8 54 8 3 82 I 1.... 27 ■ .5 88 640 60 407 '37 ■ , . ■.. ■ . 9 1 71 9 33 9 1? .. ■247'. '38 5 68 22 21 3 22 9 1 3 219 71 22 3 j 274 90 1,773 59 769 13 2601 321 j7,977 13 216 133 j 24 32 106 145 21 ;■ ■ ■■; ■ ■■ 4,718 226 1,115 200 68 650 838 831 The obtaining of p the existing evil, and of redeeming those in dissipation. irohibitior it is evii en and \ orders against person Lent some special ste ■omen who have be& is addicte ips will '. ome a p: id to ( have rey t> Inn to > hi : doe >e ai ,bits is not seer lopted wii of intern r i t< ih > remedj ihe view >en ,nee anc

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I quite concur with the suggestion put forward in last year's report that such persons should be sent to some institution where they could be kept from intoxicants for a lengthened period, medically treated, and found suitable remunerative employment, the proceeds of which should go towards the cost of their maintenance. I have to call special attention to the evident necessity of the law being amended as regards prohibited persons obtaining intoxicating drinks at railway refreshment-rooms, such rooms not being considered licensed premises within the meaning of the Licensing Acts, this fact being known and taken advantage of by many prohibited persons who resort thereto and cannot at present be dealt with. Complaints have also been received in respect to railway refreshment-rooms being kept open on Sundays, Christinas Days, and Good Fridays, and being much frequented by the public, whilst other licensed premises are closed. The effect of prohibition as regards drunkenness in public places within the areas in which the no-license vote obtained has been marked, a considerable reduction in the number of arrests for that offence having resulted, and less complaints having been received of street brawls or annoyance caused by drunken persons. On the other hand, it is evident that liquor has been introduced into private houses where it did not previously exist, and a considerable amount of sly-grog drinking is indulged in whicli is difficult to detect, and more difficult to prove, because of the amount of perjury committed. Travellers also complain of a change for the worse experienced in the comfort and cleanliness of hotels since no license obtained. The following returns show the number of persons arrested for drunkenness and dealt with in the four large centres, and the number arrested in the colony on Sundays.

Return showing the Number of Persons arrested for Drunkenness within each Principal Centre during the Year 1903, the Number convicted, and Number discharged or withdrawn (Males and Females shown separately).

Return showing the Number of Persons arrested for Drunkenness on Sundays within each Principal Centre during the Year 1903 (Males and Females shown separately).

In 1902 the number of persons arrested on Sundays for drunkenness was 135, and in 1903 only 89, the decrease (46) being satisfactory, although Sunday trading is still considerably indulged in; and I quite agree with my predecessor that the difficulty in contending with this evil will not be removed until the law is amended in the direction of making it illegal for persons other than lodgers or bond fide travellers to be on licensed premises during prohibited hours. There was an increase of one only in the number of prosecutions against publicans in 1903 as compared with 1902, although the convictions increased by 16. There exists at present, however, great difficulty in obtaining convictions against hotelkeepers, owing to the serious consequences resulting therefrom through each record of conviction being endorsed on the license. If discretionary power was given to Magistrates and Justices as regards endorsement of licenses on conviction less perjury would ensue and the ends of justice would be met. The subjoined returns show the number of prosecutions, with results, in districts, and also in the four centres,

Centre. Number arrested. M. P. Number convicted. Number i or wit ischarged idrawn. p. M. P. M. F. Auckland and suburbs Wellington and suburbs ... Christchurch and suburbs Dunedin and suburbs ... i 812 ... 1,623 942 546 135 201 195 122 809 1,621 940 544 135 201 195 121 3 2 2 2 "i Totals ... 3,923 653 3,914 652 1

Centre. Number arrested. M. P. Number convicted. Number discharged or withdrawn. M. P. M. P. .uckland and suburbs Wellington and suburbs ... ihristchurch and suburbs )unedin and suburbs 25 m 10 Ll 4 3 2 2 24 82 1.0 11 4 3 2 2 1 Totals 78 11 77 II

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Return showing the Number of Prosecutions against Publicans in each District during Year 1903, the Number convicted, and Number discharged or withdrawn.

Return showing the Number of Prosecutions against Publicans within each Principal Centre during the Year 1903, the Number convicted, and Number discharged or withdrawn.

Sly-grog. There were 216 prosecutions during the year for sly-grog selling, resulting in 151 convictions, against 122 prosecutions and 64 convictions during the preceding year. This is a considerable increase both in the number of prosecutions (94) and convictions (87), which is accounted for by the additional prohibited areas existing since June, 1903, and the special exertions of the police in endeavouring to minimise this class of offence. The difficulties to contend with in detecting and proving cases of sly-grog selling are considerable, and special means have to be resorted to occasionally, which are not generally approved, although indispensable if success is to attend our efforts to check this evil. I refer to the employment of private individuals, whose evidence is generally corroborated by the police. The recent disturbances at Ashburton during sly-grog prosecutions demonstrate the sympathy those opposed to prohibition have with such offenders, and to save a conviction wilful perjury is frequently resorted to; whilst, on the other hand, those in favour of prohibition render the police no assistance whatsoever in enforcing the law. The fines imposed on sly-grog sellers during the year 1903 amounted to £946 Is., against £762 3s. in 1902; but a number of those prosecuted in 1903 were sentenced to imprisonment without the option of a fine. The amounts of fines in the various districts are as follow :— £ s. d. Auckland ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 375 0 0 Wanganui... ... ... ... ... ... ... 11 10 0 Wellington .... ... ... ... ... ... 155 5 0 Greymouth ... ... ... ... ... ... 60 0 0 Christchurch ... ... ... ... ... .. 94 0 0 Dunediu ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 115 0 0 Invercargill ... ... ... ... ... ... 135 6 0 Total ... ... ... ... ... £946 1 0 The direct cost to the colony in detecting and prosecuting sly-grog sellers during the year was £961 Bs., this being £15 7s. more than the amount of fines imposed. Gaming Offences. There were 229 prosecutions, resulting in 124 convictions, during the year under the gaming laws, against 256 prosecutions and 212 convictions in 1902. A necessary amendment to "The Gaming and Lotteries Act, 1881," is being drafted in order to bring agents who collect money in this colony in payment for tickets in sweepstakes (such as Tattersall's in Hobart) drawn abroad within the scope of the Act, so that they can be dealt with as if the actual lottery originated in New Zealand. I trust that during the present session this amendment will be passed into law.

District. Prosecutions. Convictions. Discharged or withdrawn. Auckland Napier ... Wanganui Wellington 5reymouth jbristchurch Dunedin 46 45 31 14 35 30 24 6 21 29 9 5 18 10 12 6 25 16 22 9 L7 20 12 invercargill 231 110 121

Centre. Proseoutions. Convictions. Discharged or withdrawn. Auckland and suburbs Wellington and suburbs ... Christchurch and suburbs ... Dunedin and suburbs 14 9 14 14 8 3 5 8 6 6 9 6 51 24 27

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It seems desirable that persons convicted under the gaming laws should in no case have the privilege of electing to be tried by a jury as at present (" Indictable Offences Summary Jurisdiction Amendment Act, 1900," section 6), as, no matter how conclusive the evidence of guilt is, juries are reluctant to convict, and the ends of justice are frequently defeated. The law as regards " tote " betting and betting with infants, &c, could be carried out much more satisfactorily and effectively if witnesses could not, as at present, refuse to give evidence on the grounds of incriminating themselves. As in "The Evidence Further Amendment Act, 1901," a Judge or Justice should be empowered to examine any witness. The amendment to the law relating to billiard-rooms passed last session promises well, and has already been productive of good results. Second-hand Dealers. " The Second-hand Dealers Act, 1902," continues to work well, and gives every satisfaction. " The Infant Life Protection Act, 1896." During the year there were 544 registered homes throughout the colony, representing 854 infants, against 583 homes and 936 infants in 1902. Twenty-eight deaths occurred in the homes during the year, against 44 in the preceding year. Six licensees were prosecuted for breaches of the Act, and 4 convictions resulted, against 18 prosecutions and 12 convictions in 1902. No licenses were cancelled, and no neglect of licensees was disclosed at inquests. District Inspectoes. I am satisfied that the Inspectors in charge of districts are well qualified for the responsible positions they hold, and that they control those under their charge and conduct the multifarious duties appertaining to their respective offices in a very efficient and creditable manner. Sub-Inspectors. The Sub-Inspectors in the four centres also give every satisfaction in the performance ot their duties, the creation of this rank being an essential step towards the better supervision of the inferior ranks and the proper conduct of police prosecutions. Sergeants. There are at present serving 59 sergeants, 25 of whom are under fifty years of age, 27 between fifty and sixty years, and 7 over sixty and under sixty-five years. Although the majority of those sergeants are evidently capable, energetic, and trustworthy men a number of the senior sergeants lack the ability and energy required to maintain the discipline and control of those under them, and in consequence the men become relax and negligent in the performance of their duties. I entirely concur with my predecessor that if we are to have an efficient Police Force younger and better qualified men than hitherto will have to be promoted, and I am satisfied there are plenty of constables now serving, aged from forty to forty-five years, with fifteen to twenty years' service, who are well qualified in every respect for promotion. I also recommend the introduction of an educational examination to ascertain whether those constables recommended for promotion are qualified to discharge efficiently the duties which would devolve upon them if promoted. Constables. On the whole the constables give general satisfaction in the performance of their duties, and I am pleased to observe that many of them are very intelligent and energetic, having a good knowledge of the law ; they take an interest in the prevention and detection of crime. On the other hand it is apparent that more supervision is required, especially in the outer districts, and with this view I have recommended an augmentation to the present strength of the sergeants. Detectives. I am pleased to report that during the past year the detective staff deserve credit for the able manner in which (assisted by the preventive branch) they have dealt with criminals, and kept crime in check. The fact that the number of serious crimes has considerably decreased during the year, and undetected cases have diminished, tends to demonstrate the efficiency of this branch of the service. District Clkrkk. The District Clerks, especially in the four centres, have an immense amount of clerical work of a varied character to perform, their position being one of considerable responsibility, and I am pleased to report that on the whole their duties are carried out in a very satisfactory and efficient manner. Conduct of Members of the Force. 'During the past year the conduct of the members of the Force showed a slight improvement as compared with the preceding year, and the number of punishments it was found necessary to inflict for misconduct was somewhat fewer.

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Two men were dismissed during the year, and eight men were punished for offences in connection with drink, but in only one of these cases was the offence one of drunkenness whilst on duty. Very little dissatisfaction is expressed by members of the Force as to the present condition of the service, and, with the exception of a few small, but important, alterations for the better supervision of the men and the more efficient performance of the police duties required, the working of the Department is at present on a satisfactory basis, and can be favourably compared with any other Police Force. Extra Woek of Police. The following is a list of special appointments held by the police in addition to their ordinary duties, and although on the whole the work performed by them for other Departments is satisfactorily carried out, and is, no doubt, a considerable saving in the expenditure of the Departments concerned, in some instances it interferes with the efficient performance of police-work, and is the cause of applications being made for additional police-protection. Bailiffs of Magistrates' and Wardens' Courts ... ... ... ... 142 Charitable Aid Boards' agents ... ... ... ... ... 8 Clerk of Assessment Court... ... ... ... ... ... 1 Clerks of Magistrates'and Wardens' Courts ... ... ... ... 113 Clerks of Licensing Committees ... ... ... ... ... 14 Customs Officer Deputy ... ... ... ... ... ... 1 Customs Officers under Beer Duty Act ... ... ... ... 8 Deputy Eegistrars of old-age pensions ... ... ... ... 25 Dog Eegistrars ... ... ... ... ... ... .. 6 Gaolers ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 25 Inspectors of Awards under Industrial Conciliation and Arbitration Act .. 10 Inspectors of Clubs ... ... ... ... ... ... 7 „ Distilleries ... ... ... ... ... ... 1 „ Factories ... ... ... .. ... ... 154 „ Machinery ... ... ... ... ... ... 1 Sea-fisheries ... ... ... ... ... ... 20 „ Shearers' Accommodation ... ... ... ... 2 „ Weights and Measures ... ... ... ... 54 „ under Beer Duty Act ... ... ... ... ... 10 Labour Department agents ... ... ... ... ... 14 Licensing Officers under the Arms Act ... ... ... ... 39 Magazine-keepers ... ... ... ... ... ... 3 Official Members of Maori Councils ... ... ... ... ... 7 Postmasters ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 2 Probation Officers ... ... ~. ... ... ... 51 Public Trust Office agents ... ... ... ... ... ... 3 Rangers under Animals Protection Act ... ... ... ... 3 „ Crown Lands Act ... ... ... ... 1 „ Fisheries Conservation Act ... ... ... 3 „ Kauri-gum Industry Act ... ... ... 3 Receivers of Gold Eevenue ... ... ... ... ... 12 Registrars of Births, Deaths, and Marriages ... ... ... ... 4 Eegistrars of Mining ... ... ... ... ... ... 12 Vaccination Inspectors ... ... . ... ... ... 1 Strength and Distribution op the Foece. As regards the present strength and distribution of the Force (vide Appendix B) continued demands for additional police-protection are still being received, and, owing to the gradual increase of the population, it is evident a number of those demands are justifiable. I am of opinion that an augumentation of five sergeants, fifteen constables, and five detectives is urgently needed, and that this number would meet the present requirements and satisfy the demands made. FINGEE-PEINT BeANCH. The finger-print system of identification of criminals was first introduced into the Prisons Department in this colony in March, 1903, but was subsequently taken over by the Police Department and properly established in July last. The branch is now in good working-order, the classification and registration of finger-prints being systematically carried out by two experienced clerks under my supervision. The system adopted is that originally formulated by E. R. Henry, Esq., C.5.1., Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police, London, and is precisely the same as that now in operation under his supervision at New Scotland Yard. All finger-impressions of criminals are taker! by the Prison authorities immediately after conviction, and forwarded to the Finger-print Branch for registration, except in special cases where the criminal is unknown, and it is deemed necessary to have the finger-prints taken during remand or whilst awaiting trial, with the view of ascertaining his or her identity and previous history before trial. In such cases the finger-prints are forwarded for identification to the Australian States or elsewhere, according to the information obtained concerning the accused. Credit is due to the Gaolers and warders for the satisfactory manner in which the finger-impressions are taken, considering the brief experience they have had.

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On the 31st March last the finger-print collection consisted of 3,500 slips, each slip containing the prints of a separate offender. During the short period that this branch has been in operation no less than 117 criminals who would otherwise have escaped as first offenders were by means of their finger-prints identified as previously convicted persons, whose whole previous criminal histories were thus collected, and have now been registered in the Finger-print Branch for future reference. Of this number, 3 important identifications took place at New Scotland Yard, [London, through finger-print impressions of persons in custody here being transmitted to the Metropolitan Police for identification. In like manner, 10 identifications resulted in Australia (9 at Sydney and 1 at Melbourne); the remainder (104) being identifications of persons in custody in the colony whose previous convictions were unknown through change of address and false names recorded. Many of those identified had previously undergone various terms of imprisonment for serious offences, some having served long terms of penal servitude. The importance, therefore, of having a record of the criminal history of such offenders can readily be understood. The true value, however, of this system of identification can only be realised when it is universally adopted and has been in practice for a number of years, as the longer it is established the more important and useful does it become. It is satisfactory to observe that most of the Police Forces of the Australian States have recently introduced the system to their Departments, so that in future finger-print impressions can be exchanged in a similar manner to that at present carried out with photographs, and will be productive of better results. The introduction of this branch of the service does not dispense with the continuance of photographs being used as a means of tracing criminals, although it will materially lessen the number required for identification purposes. A complete system of filing all photographs of criminals, with easy reference to their finger-prints, has now been formulated in the Finger-print Branch, and will no doubt prove very serviceable in the detection of crime. A register is also kept in this branch containing a complete record of all convictions known against each criminal whose finger-prints have been registered, so that, in the event of any criminal being arrested hereafter whose finger-impressions had previously been taken, a reference to the Finger-print Branch will disclose not only the identity of the accused, but reveal his or her whole previous criminal history. This register should act as a "ready reckoner," and prove invaluable in years to come, saving considerable loss of time, expense, and labour in endeavouring to trace the previous criminal records of prisoners. A case has recently arisen which clearly demonstrates the value of the finger-print system of identification. A man named John Pinero was arrested and committed for trial at Sydney on a charge of housebreaking. His finger-prints were taken and forwarded here in the usual way for identification, with the result that they were at once found to be identical with those of Otto Heerdigan, alias Adams, who escaped from the lawful custody of a warder at Dunedin in November last whilst undergoing a sentence of two years and six months' imprisonment for extensive housebreaking in this colony. Pinero was acquitted on the Sydney charge, and has since admitted his identity with Heerdigan, alias Adams, his extradition being now demanded. This criminal would undoubtedly have escaped identification if the finger-print system had not been established. I am satisfied that the establishment of this branch was an important step in the right direction as regards the identification of criminals. Training-depot, Candidates, etc. The training-depot continues to work well, and its effect on the men who have passed through it is very marked. The benefit to the public arising from the instruction in ambulance-work received by every man who passes through the depot is demonstrated from time to time by the efficient " first aid " rendered in cases of accidents, &c. Instruction in the system of taking the finger-prints of persons for the purposes of identification is now imparted to all men passing through the depot. The number of eligible candidates continues to be very much in excess of the vacancies to be filled. At the commencement of the year under review there were several hundreds of eligible candidates on the list. During the year there were 140 fresh candidates, who, after inquiry, measurement, &c, were found to be eligible for the service. Forty-three men were taken on during the year. The nationalities, religions, and occupations of these 43 men are as follows:—Nationalities: New-Zealand-born, 32; English, 1; Irish, 3; Australian, 6; Canadian, 1. Eeligions: Church of England, 18; Presbyterians, 9; Eoman Catholics, 12 ; Wesleyans, 3; Primitive Methodist, 1. Occupations: Labourers, 18; farmers, 4; storemen, 2 ; clerks, 2; blacksmiths, 2 ; brickmaker, 1 ; engine-driver, 1 ; drover, 1; platelayer, 1; carpenter, 1; bookseller and stationer, 1; baker, 1 ; prison warder, 1; asylum warder, 1; shop-assistant, 1; storekeeper, 1 ; contractor, 1 ; miner, 1; photographer, 1; bridgeman, 1. Police Pbovident Fund. On the 31st March last the amount standing to the credit of the fund was £21,793 11s. 3d., being an increase on the year of £3,375 6s. On the same date there were on the fund 3 exinspectors, 12 ex-sergeants, 20 ex-constables, 1 ex-detective, and the widow and 2 orphans of a deceased constable, their aggregate annual allowances being £3,548 17s. Bd. Since the Act came into force the Government have saved the sum of £11,343 15s. 7d. in the form of retiring-allowances, which would no doubt have been paid had it not existed.

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Stations, etc. During the year the following works have been completed :— New Buildings. Te Awamutu ... Quarters. Waiuku ... ... New stable. Moawhango ... ... Stable, &c. Waihi ... ... Quarters. Mangaweka ... ... Quarters. Piriaka ... ... Lock -up and living- Featherston ... ... „ rooms. Havelock ... ... „ Waipawa ... ... Stable, "&c. Okarito ... ... „ Herbertville ... ... Purchase and removal Lyttelton ... ... Lock-up. of lock-up. Sites Acquired. Avondale. Akaroa. Otorohanga. Ngapara. Nelson (additional land). Ongaruhe. Additions, Repairs, &c. Ponsonby ... ... Additions. Kumara ... ... Eepairs. Shortland ... ... Eenovations. Eangiora ... ... „ Gisborne ... ... Additions. Kaiapoi ... ... Renovations. Napier ... ... „ Leeston ... ... „ Dannevirke ... ... Additions, repairs, &c. Lincoln ... ... „ Woodville ... ... „ „ Sheffield New Plymouth ... Eenovations. Waimate ... ... Fencing, &c. Stratford ... ... Additions, &c. Dunedin, King Street ... Alterations. Waitotara ... ... „ Queenstown ... ... Eepairs, &c. Eaetihi ... ... Eepairs, &c. Cromwell ... ... Additions, &c. Wellington, Mount Cook New cells, retaining- Ophir ... ... Eepairs, &c. wall, &c. Mataura ... ... „ Seddonville ... ... Additions, &c. Bluff ... ... Renovations. Lyell ... ... „ Wyndham ... ... Additions, &c. Brunnerton .. ... Eepairs. Lumsden ... ... Repairs, &c. Greymouth ... ... Alterations, &c. The following new buildings are in course of erection, or have, been authorised, viz.: —Lock-ups at Porangahau, Rangiora, and Sumner; quarters, &c, at Akaroa; and new stables at Invercargill. New stations are required at Whangarei, Helensville, Avondale, Raglan, Kihikihi, Waiuku, Karangahake, Tolaga Bay, Carterton, Collingwood, Addington, Clinton (in place of one destroyed by fire), and Gore. The additions to Lambton Quay and Mount Cook Stations are much needed; and the single men's quarters at Christchurch, which are old and insanitary, require replacing by new. A new station for the accommodation of about twenty men, with sergeant's residence, is also much needed in the Newton district of Auckland, to supersede the three small stations now in that locality. Three sections have been leased by the Government from the Auckland City Council for the erection thereon of the required station, and this should be put in hand without delay. Cost of Police, etc. A return is herewith annexed (Appendix D) giving proportion of police to the population and the cost of police per inhabitant in each of the Australian States and in this colony. Inspectors' Beports. Extracts from the annual reports of the Inspectors in charge of districts are hereto annexed. I have, &c, W. Dinnib, Commissioner of Police.

BXTEACTS FEOM ANNUAL REPORTS OF OFFICERS IN CHARGE OF DISTRICTS. Inspector J. Cullen, Auckland, Waikato, and Bay op Islands. The authorised strength of the district on the 31st March last was 135 of all ranks, being ari increase of three over the preceding year. The increase referred to has been distributed as follows : One sergeant to Newton, and one constable to Auckland City and Devonport Stations. As the population of the city and suburbs has been rapidly increasing, and there is always more than an average percentage of criminals in our midst, I think the increase in both the detective and uniform branches should be proportionate with the growth of population, so as to keep the Force on an efficient footing and in a position to deal with members of the criminal class. A detective and plain-clothes constable should be appointed at Newton Station for the purpose of effectually supervising the criminals residing in that and adjacent sub-districts. Ponsonby, with a population of over seven thousand, has only two constables to attend to police matters. An additional constable is urgently needed at this station. Auckland City requires an extra detective and twelve constables to bring the strength to an efficient footing.

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Waihi is also in need of an extra constable, there being but one sergeant and two constables to look after a mining population of five thousand, mostly composed of male adults. The casualties in the Force stationed in this district were as follow : 1 constable and 1 district constable resigned, 1 constable died, 2 sergeants and 2 constables retired on superannuation, and the services of 1 Native constable were dispensed with. The sly-grog-selling nuisance is still strongly in evidence in the King-country, and will continue so until such time as licensed houses are established by Government, or the introduction of liquor within the proclaimed area is strictly prohibited. During 1903 there were 167 prosecutions for sly-grog selling, as compared with 77 for 1902. The conduct of the members of the Force has been fair, with the exception of some of the junior hands, who show a marked inclination to avoid doing their duties in a satisfactory manner. Inspbctoe B. Macdonell, Napiee and East Coast Distbict. The return of crime for the year ended the 31st December, 1903, shows that 1,907 offences of various kinds were reported to the police, as against 1,485 during the year 1902. Of these, 1,834 were either arrested or proceeded against by summons, leaving only 73 undetected offences. The result shows an increase of 422 offences as compared with the previous year, the increase being chiefly in drunkenness (125), gaming (27), obscene language (48), obstructing and resisting police (24), thefts undescribed (47), sheep-stealing (10), and vagrancy (25). I may say that I attribute the increase to some extent to increased activity on the part of the police for some time back ; at the same time there is no doubt that the prosperity of Dannevirke (due to sawmilling, &c.) is responsible for a good deal of the drunkenness and offences of a disorderly nature. Forty-five informations for breaches of the licensing laws were laid during the year, resulting in 29 convictions, 13 dismissals, and 3 withdrawn, as against 30 prosecutions and 7 convictions the previous year. While on this subject I beg to state that, although more successful in these cases than during the previous year, I still experience great difficulty in proving breaches of these laws. I attribute this in a great measure to the serious consequences now of indorsements, which are more dreaded than ever. I venture the opinion that if more discretion were given to Magistrates as to indorsements there would be less difficulty in proving infringements of this law; at present every possible effort is made to save licenses from indorsements. I am pleased to be able co say that the majority of hotelkeepers, especially in the towns, are conducting their houses very much better than formerly. The case is different with some of the country ones ; but, taken as a whole, there is a considerable all-round improvement. Several transfers of sergeants and constables were made during the year, which, I am satisfied, has led to increased activity and efficiency. I am pleased to say that on the whole the conduct of sergeants, constables, and detectives has been good, and, as already stated, increased activity has been noticeable throughout the district for some time. The sergeants and constables' quarters, with a few exceptions, are in good order and comfortable, and, so far as I can judge, the men appear to be contented with their positions and treatment.

Inspectoe N. Kiely, Wanganui and West Coast District. There has been very little crime of a serious nature in this district during the year 1903. Of all offences reported there was an increase of 312 on the previous year. The licensing laws are enforced strictly throughout the district, and are fairly observed by the publicans. The successful prosecution of some of the noted sly-grog sellers of Raetihi, resulting in three of them being sentenced to a month's hard labour each, has been a great check on those indulging in that traffic in the back country. The conduct of members of the Force in this district has been very good during the past year, excepting in one or two instances, where punishment has been inflicted for breaches of the regulations. On the whole, the men are sober and attentive to their duty.

Inspectoe J. W. Ellison, Wellington and Maelboeough Disteict. The increase of population and general prosperity no doubt accounts for the increase of drunkenness, and the latter to some extent accounts for an increase in certain offences. During 1903 there was an increase of 363 offences, including 194 of drunkenness, as will be seen by the annual offences return. There was, however, a small decrease in the number of undetected offences, the number being 192, against 204 for 1902. The undetected offences include numerous trivial ones; in fact, very few of the more serious class remain undetected. Two juvenile offenders and two adults gave considerable trouble during the year, each pair having committed several crimes of housebreaking and theft. They were, however, discovered, and nearly all the stolen property was restored to the owners. The most serious offence during the past twelve months was the murder of a man in February at Te Awaite, the motive being personal spite and revenge. As you are aware, the murderer has not yet been discovered, although continued exertions are being made to trace him. 2—H. 16.

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A new station has recently been opened at Brooklyn, a populous suburb lately included in the City of Wellington. One constable has been added to Levin Station and one to Lambton Quay during the year. Special attention has been given to vagrants of the criminal class, and a large number, both male and female, have been successfully prosecuted. Late amendments in the law have materially assisted the police in keeping criminal vagrants in check. The conduct of the police of the district has been good. Very few cases requiring departmental punishment have arisen. The uniformed police, detectives, and clerical staff have worked well and smoothly, and all have contributed towards preserving good order and keeping crime in check. In conclusion, I might refer to the large amount of work done by the police for other Departments. At several of the country stations the clerical work of constables acting as Clerks of Courts, &c, takes up a great deal of time, and often precludes a constable from giving proper attention to outdoor duty. A great deal of work is also done for the Railway Department in searching for goods sent astray or incorrectly checked. The Old-age Pensions Department also furnishes an immense amount of correspondence for attention. The correspondence and work attended to for other Departments forms a very large part of the clerical work of this office.

Inspector E. Wilson, Nelson and Westland District. On the 31st March, 1904, the actual strength of this district was 44—viz., 1 inspector, 5 sergeants, 36 constables, 1 detective, and 1 district constable. A new station has been formed at Karamea and a local resident appointed district constable. This arrangement has been found very satisfactory, several fatal accidents having happened there, and with the resident Justices inquests were held, with considerable saving to the Department. During the year a detective has been added to the strength, one sergeant has retired on pension, one constable resigned, and one constable has been promoted to sergeant, their places being taken by men from within the district and the vacancies filled from other districts. The conduct of the men on the whole has been good, the only exceptions being that one constable was fined and another removed, the latter being subsequently dismissed. During the year there were 35 prosecutions for breaches of the Licensing Acts, resulting in 18 convictions, while fines amounting to £60 were imposed for sly-grog selling, as against 26 prosecutions in 1902 and sly-grog fines of £26 10s. The opening of the State coal-mine at Eunanga, some six miles from Greymouth, will mean in the near future the stationing of a constable at that place, as employment will be given to between three and four hundred miners and others about the mine. Nearly all the town sections have been taken up, and several buildings (some intended for publichouses) are being erected. A station and constable should be provided for at Granity, as this township and Millerton are growing rapidly; and, although the constables at Seddonville and Denniston visit the place weekly, the position, business, &c, warrant the appointment of a separate station. Now that the Police Provident Fund is accumulating, it is the general opinion that some more liberal provision should be made for widows. As the law now stands, the maximum allowance is only £18 per annum, no consideration being given to the length of service or position of deceased, or the actual amount of his contributions to the fund.

Inspector E. J. Gillies, Christchurch and North Otago District. The actual strength of the Force of the district on the 31st March was 119, being an increase of one constable during the year. This is one man short of the authorised strength. The number is made up as follows : Inspector, 1; sub-inspector, 1; sergeants, 11; constables, 102 ; and detectives, 4. In addition, there was a district constable and matron; also a surgeon at Christchurch. Two constables resigned, one receiving a pension under the Police Provident Fund Act. The quarters provided for men in charge of stations are with few exceptions very comfortable, and repairs were effected as required. The annual offences return for the year ended the 31st December, 1903, shows that 3,972 offences in the district were reported during the year, an increase of 196 on the previous year. The offences return for the year shows that 3.972 offences were reported, and 3,851 persons apprehended or summoned during the year ended the 31st December, 1903, leaving the number of cases undetected comparatively small. In the majority of cases described as " theft," of those remaining undetected, the property stolen was not identifiable. The detectives were very successful in their endeavours to cope with the criminal classes throughout the district, and they were efficiently assisted by plain-clothes constables and the general police. I regret to find from the records that there were thirty breaches of discipline against constables during the year, being an increase of eleven in such offences as compared with the total number for the previous year. The conduct of the men at country stations has, with one or two exceptions, been very good. The conduct of the detectives and plain-clothes men has also been very good. In my last annual report I recommended an augmentation of seven men to the district. These men were not supplied. I therefore again draw attention to it, as not less than seven additional constables are required—viz., three for Christchurch, one for Lyttelton, one for St. Albans, and, as a station should be opened at Upper Eiccarton and one at St. Andrew's, two men would be required for these places.

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Inspectob T. O'Brien, Dunedin Distbict. 3B<f! The total number of offences reported during the year was 1,917, showing a decrease of 6 as compared with the preceding year, and the total number of arrests, including those proceeded against by summons, for the year was 1,833, being an increase of 41 as compared with the preceding year. The most serious crime committed in the district during the year was one of violent assault, accompanied by robbery of nearly £300, which took place at Dunedin on the 16th February, 1903. Two notorious criminals named Eamsay and Cairns were apprehended for the offence, and after two trials they were both found guilty and each sentenced to twelve years' imprisonment with hard labour. It will be observed that there are a few of the more serious offences committed during the year still undetected ; but, on the whole, the detective branch has been fairly successful, while the preventive branch has also to be congratulated on its vigilance in the prevention of crime. Owing to the very large area in this district in which the sale of liquor is now prohibited by law, and the large number of persons to whom such law is distasteful, it is naturally to be expected that sly-grog selling to some extent goes on. However, the heavy fines and long terms of imprisonment inflicted upon those who have been detected has had a salutary effect, and hence the number of illicit sales are comparatively few. While on this subject I would again suggest that all boardinghouses in prohibited districts be licensed, and that the police be empowered to enter such places at all reasonable hours. This would enable the police to see whether or not liquor was being sold, exposed, or kept for sale. I cordially welcome the amendment to the law relating to the conduct of private billiardrooms. It has already been productive of good results. The Second-hand Dealers Act of 1902 continues to give satisfaction. The Infant Life Protection Act also continues to give general satisfaction. It is satisfactory to note that only two deaths took place amongst the large number of infants in such homes in this district during the year. Dissatisfaction still exists respecting the Dunedin railway refreshment-rooms keeping open for an hour and a half after the city hotels close at night, also on Christmas Day, Good Friday, the day of the general election, and the day for the election of the Licensing Committee, on which days hotels are directed to be closed. On those days drinking to a great extent takes place at the railway-station, and disorderly scenes are often enacted there. The gaming laws in their present shape are not by any means conducive to success in prosecutions for breaches thereof. Whenever the term of imprisonment to which an offender is liable exceeds three months, the accused party may elect to have his case tried by a jury ; and juries, for some reason best known to themselves, are very loth to convict in such cases, no matter how conclusive the evidence for the prosecution may be. The only casualty during the year was the death of Constable C. O'Sullivan on the 29th April, 1903. Owing to the number of constables who go on the sick-list here during the winter months, and avail themselves of annual leave of absence during the summer months, and also to the great amount of escorting of prisoners to be done between this city and Christchurch and Invercargill, I would suggest that the Force here be augmented by at least two constables. On the whole, the conduct of sergeants, constables, and detectives during the year has been good, more especially those stationed in country towns.

Inspector A. J. Mitchell, Southland District. I have the honour to report that "no license" obtained in the Mataura electorate in June last, since which eight convictions for sly-grog selling, one for assisting in the commission of an offence, and five for illegally dealing in liquor have resulted. Eleven prosecutions have been initiated for serious breaches of the Licensing Act, followed by ten convictions. In three cases fatal accidents, and in two serious accidents, were attributable to excessive drinking. The percentage of undetected crime remains satisfactorily small. Seeing that Invercargill has a population of over twelve thousand persons, and that it is adjacent to the Bluff, the first port of call for boats from Melbourne and Hobart, I would again urge the necessity for strengthening the local staff by two additional constables, so that property may be securely guarded, especially at night-time. I beg to ask favourable consideration to the amending of " The Indictable Offences Summary Jurisdiction Amendment Act, 1900," in the direction of giving to two Justices equal jurisdiction with a Magistrate in the matter of committing for sentence accused persons whom the Court proposes committing for trial, and who elect to plead " Guilty " in the lower Court.

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APPENDIX A. Return showing the Number of Offences reported, Persons apprehended, and Comparison of Crime during the Year ending 31st December, 1902, and Year ending 31st December, 1903.

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Oftences. 1902. ■ § 5.2 if 1 o S SI'S "8 CD fl J* © iiil Persi me apprehended or summoned. 1903. ■2 a"3 a 3223 Nurul Couvii amo tlK comm lor T ber of ctions mgst ose litted Mai. I Coi miti forT: Q;ed rial. Summarily Convicted. Discharged. ill M. F. M. F. M. P. M. i<\ Abandoning children Abduction Abortion, procuring Absconding from apprenticeship Absconding from bail Absconding from industrial schools Abusive and threatening language Arson Arson, attempted Assaults, common Assaults, indecent Assaults occasioning bodily harm Assaults on bailiffs Assaults on police Assaults and robbery Attempts to commit felony Bankruptcy offences Being in possession of housebreaking implements Begging Bestiality Bestiality, attempted .. Bigamy Breaches of the peace Burglary, breaking into shops, dwellings, &c. Causing bodily harm by negligence Carnally knowing girls Carnally knowing, attempted .. Cattle and horse stealing (see Theft). Cattle-maiming Coinage offences Concealment of birth Conspiring to defeat the course of justice Conspiring to defraud Contempt of Court Counselling the commission of an offence Cruelty to animals Cruelty to children Cutting and wounding.. Damaging police uniform Defacing brands on stock Deserting and failing to provide for wives and children Deserters and stragglers from H.M. ships Deserters and absentees from merchant vessels Discharging firearms Disobeying orders on board ships Disobeying orders of Court and summonses Disobeying terms of release under First Offenders' Probation Act Disorderly and riotous conduct.. Dissuading a witness from giving evidence Distillation offences .. DistributiDg obscene literature .. Disturbing meetings and congregations Drunkenness Endangering lives of persons travelling 1 n railway Escaping from custody Escaping Irorn custody, attempted Failing to support parents and near relatives False declarations False pretences Falsifying company's books with intent to defraud Fish, illegally taking Forcible entry Forgery and uttering Fortune-telling Furious riding and driving Game, illegally shooting 1 1 3 110 270 64 9 860 35 45 2 69 52 6 11 8 3 2 3 2 3 99 278 19 7 910 53 61 2 89 47 9 12 4 2 2 3 2 78 278 16 6 903 50 61 2 87 44 7 12 4 1 3 13 2 5 35 29 1 1 78 199 1 2 605 2 10 1 13 15 1 2 60 2 2 255 8 18 6 28 2 2 3 2 78 278 17 6 903 45 62 2 87 52 7 12 4 1 "9 2 1 "1 3 2 2 1 "8 50 18 16 3 .. 2 .. 2 .. 1 1 .. ■■ o " U 8 I .. 45 2 '3 2 1 ~25 20 1 50 .. I O 18 .. 1 £• 1 38 3 12 1 81 1 1 4 11 4 1 18 2 12 1 20 16 .. or\ '2 i 1 20 .. 5 o "3 1 3 .. 1 "2 i 1 .. 4 19 3 1 368 449 25 1 1 2 501 340 25 1 1 2 499 213 1 1 1 22 1 2 1 54 29 25 1 1 2 510 220 1 1 6 1 1 133 . 6 .. 2 1 1 .. 1 128 1 446 57 8 2 2 3 115 1 .. 1 QO 133 .. 109 "9 4 1 7 5 1 6 5 1 6 1 1 6 5 1 2 1 1 .. 2 -1 4 1 1 .. 4 1 3 7 1 2 2 l 2 2 1 2 2 1 2 2 1 2 3 1 1 .. 1 7 1 1 4 12 1 4 12 1 "3 9 'i 1 4 12 1 1 .. 1 4 3 i 2 "9 n 9 .. 230 9 1 21 4 700 190 16 4 30 189 16 4 30 2 1 •2 136 8 2 30 3 3 50 3 1 189 18 4 30 "l 1 40 7 3 9 7 o 3 .. 9 .. 599 541 375 '5 158 3 541 4 101 36 36 22 22 22 21 80 25 120 95 80 79 1 37 107 536 28 61 598 27 60 562 24 59 449 6 3 1 101 6 27 60 562 9 46 62 62 .. 10 3 3 2 1 3 7 292 2 378 1 377 1 i 344 12 21 377 1 "l 86 86 .. 1 2 2 57 54 53 50 *7 57 2 2 e 8,269 1 8,815 8,815 7,935 839 38 3 8,815 546 546 .. 1 16 1 224 5 246 4 231 8 1 148 3 76 4 4 231 3 11 1 22 22 .. 36 212 3 56 265 54 231 3 32 *9 25 139 7 13 7 33 12 5 54 231 3 16 "7 20 53 20 .. CO 53 .. 3 48 6 99 24 106 40 92 76 10 62 43 92 73 10 62 43 64 a 58 2 53 33 1 6 36 6 a 95 72 10 62 43 62 "2 44 44 .. 6 23 14 44 *9 10 "3 3 ..

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APPENDIX A—continued. Return showing the Number of Offences reported, Persons apprehended, and Comparison of Crime during the Year ending 31st December, 1902, and Year ending 31st December, 1903— continued.

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1902. 1903. Offences. DO c≤ '<-• e GO 9 • So •SsaS o M !-SS£ ilSi g<! a Persons a] Committed for Trial. .prehenaed or summoned, g £ o u n ™£ e t [ o ° f B (*t m (D flj "a a<a a amongst Sβ chSTed. Sjif ooZ°|ed lo|S M. F. M. F. H * o M. F. Summarily Convicted. 1 1—1 I O o M. P. M. F. Gaming offences Illegally on premises .. .. Illegally pawning Illegal sale of arms Incest Indecent exposure or behaviour Keeping disorderly houses and brothels Killing animals with intent to steal the carcases Libel Malicious injury to property Maliciously killing or maiming animals Manslaughter Murder Murder, attempted Neglected and criminal children Obscene and profane language .. Obstructing and resisting police Obstructing railway-lines Obstructing railway officers Obstructing thoroughfares Offensive publications Perjury Personating electors Poison laying Prison offences (loitering about and communicating with prisoners) Rape Rape, attempted Receiving stolen property Refusing to quit licensed premises Rescuing cattle from being impounded Restricted immigrants, unlawfully landing Sacrilege Sending false telegrams Sheep-stealing (see Theft). Shooting with intent Sly-grog selling Smuggling Sodomy Sodomy, attempted Soliciting prostitution Stone-throwing Stowing away on board ships Suicide, attempted Sureties of the peace Theft (undescribed) Theft as a bailee Theft, attempted Theft of cattle and horses Theft of dogs Theft of pigs Theft of sheep Theft from dwellings Theft from the person Theft of post-letters Theft by servants Threatening letters Threatening to break and enter.. Threatening to shoot Travelling by rail and refusing to pay fares Trespass Unlawful assembly Vagrancy 257 149 1 229 182 3 1 5 270 26 229 182 3 1 5 269 26 7 124 141 97 25 1 2 229 182 3 1 4 268 26 2l 3 1 4 14 2 1 4 2f1 33 .. 2 .. 1 .. 7 234 32 232 6 ie 12 20 4 4 2 36 .. 6 4 4 4 4 4 .. 494 8 3 481 13 3 468 10 3 4 1 372 6 17 74 3 '5 3 472 10 i 3 .. 13 5 .. i; 5 7 8 177 649 195 9 11 113 3 21 2 6 5 3 167 773 177 15 11 183 1 27 2 2 4 6 4 8 167 770 176 14 11 183 1 26 2 2 4 5 3 1 i 1 6 4 3 167 770 176 14 11 186 1 26 2 2 4 i 2 1 .. "2 2 8 39 9 2 2 1 1 97 679 166 12 11 173 1 1 60 45 1 a 5 5 10 : 124 10 18 6 .. 18 i 12 70 '.'. 8 2 2 i 10 4 6 1 2 6 .. "2 3 1 1 i 2 !! 6 2 "2 10 11 29 112 17 7 17 22 iai 17 7 16 22 121 17 5 10 9 2 6 5 19 5 7 16 22 121 18 5 6 1 3 6 .. 8 110 9 1 2 2 7 9 .. 4 1 3 1 1 8 "8 7 1 8 "i 8 .. 5 122 15 1 1 23 96 65 36 77 1,824 17 9 110 11 5 8 289 66 8 77 4 1 3 8 1 220 29 1 2 51 114 110 32 61 1,755 13 8 80 6 2 21 249 63 7 99 2 1 219 29 1 2 51 114 110 32 61 1,343 8 8 61 4 2 15 181 46 4 96 1 20 1 2 1 103 4 40 7 4 113 25 98 108 23 46 952 4 6 7 2 22 • 50 1 2 2 1 74 1 45 4 31 5 13 190 2 14 2 2 4 32 11 9 i i i i 25 1 216 29 1 2 51 130 110 32 61 1,348 8 8 61 4 2 15 182 46 4 96 1 13 i 90 2 22 3 4 4 98 .. 14 .. 1 .. 28 .. 18 .. 45 .. 4 16 69 4 1 li fi! 1 30 30 5 11 46 19 1 44 ,3 3 96 12 2 42 2 1 6 'a i 7 44 17 1 36 2 3 13 .. 40 3 1 22 .. 2 1 "i 1 3 22 "3 21 20 i a "3 21 14 '.'. 175 1 470 159 1 567 159 124 10 24 i 159 16 567 378 136 37 16 567 *97 '.'. Totals 19,771 20,736 19,811 759 44 15,696 1,419 1,791 19,867 1,799 834 Ino. 965 158 568 23

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APPENDIX B. Return showing the Strength and Distribution of the New Zealand Police Force on the 31st March, 1904.

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Stations. I DB a J Q l-l i . B CO a 3 i 1 ik 51 a |l "3 00 n i Cβ to o c Cβ 00* g s ■Jl Stations. It I 5 i>1 3 S ao & DO 5 u B -Jl I B 3 If! s I S o O f ll d o Id" * "SO „ i i . ■sill? § § B IT. Auckland, Waikato. and Bay of IslandsAuckland Aratapu Avondale Cambridge Coromandel Cowes Dargaville Devonport Eden Terrace Ellerslie Freeman's Bay .. Hamilton Helensville Hikurangi :. Hobsonville Hohoura Howick Huntly Kaikohe Kaitaia Karangahake Kawakawa Kawhia Kihikihi Mangawai Mangonui Mercer Mt. Roskill Road Newmarket Newton Ngaruawahia Northcote Ohaeawai Okupu, Gt. Barrier Onehunga Ongaruhe Otahuhu Otorohanga Paeroa Pahi Pan mure Papakura Parnell Piriaka Ponsonby Port Albert Pukekohe Baglan Rawene Russell Shortland Surrey Hills Te Aroha Te Awamutu Te Kuiti Thames Waihi Waipu Waitekauri Waiuku W ark worth Whangarei Whangaroa Whitianga 1 1 4 40 1 1 1 2 1 3 3 1 1 1 1 1 5 51 1 1 1 2 1 Q 3 1 1 2 1 1 i 1 1 Napier and East Coast — contd. Ormondville Porongahau Port Awanui Rotorua Spit (Napier) Taradale Taupo Tauranga Te Puke Te Whaiti Tokaanu Tolaga Bay Tuparoa Waikaremoana .. Waipawa Waipiro Waipukurau Wairoa Weber Whakatane Woodville i i' 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 I 2 1 1 1 2 1 i i i i 1 i i 2 i "a i" l i l i i 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 i 2 1 2 i Totals 1 i 6 39 i 47 6 i i •" g 1 1 1 2 i 1 1 3 1 1 1 2 1 i Q 1 2 1 1 I 1 : 1 j 1 1 1 1 1 i o 2 1 i 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 2 7 1 1 Q 1 1 1 2 1 1 1 2 1 1 .1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 6 3 1 1 1 1 2 1 1 i i i i" i' Wanganui and West Coast— Wanganui Aramoho Ashhurst Bull's Eltham Feilding Foxton Hawera Hunterville Inglewood Kimbolton Manaia Mangaweka Marton Moawhango Mokau New Plymouth .. Normanby Opunake Palmerston North Patea Raetihi Rahotu Rongotea Shannon Stratford Taihape Terrace End (Palmerston N.) .. Waitara Waitotara Waverley Whangamomona 1 i' l<) 1 1 1 1 2 •2 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 6 1 1 C 1 1 1 1 1 3 2 1 18 1 1 1 1 2 2 3 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 7 1 1 8 1 1 1 1 1 3 2 ■" i i 1 i i »• I " •i 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 j I.. 1 Totals 1 4 56 2 63 1 8 j Totals Napier and East Coast— Napier Carlyle Street .. Clive - Dannevirke Gisborne Hastings Herbertville Katikati Opotiki Ormond 1 1 i 11 1 8 . . 1 .. 1 1 2 1 6 1 2 115 5 1 133 11 1 1 Q 7 q o 8 j 3 1 1 Wellington and Marlborough— Wellington Blenheim Brooklyn Carterton Clyde Quay Cullensville Eketahuna Featherston Greytown North Havelock Johnsonville Levin Lower Hutt Makuri Mangatainoka .. Manners St. (Wn.) 1 i' 5 34 4 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 2 1 4 45 5 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 2 1 i i 1 i 1 1 i .. 1 .. 1 1 1 1 i 3 i 3

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APPENDIX B— continued. Return showing the Strength, &c., of the New Zealand Police Force — continued.

15

Stations. i c b • j q i 1 III ? 3;j a: 5 a 3 O O M 3 o E--*3 © IT. y= 5 1 ■11 o ■Jl a Q I a x Stations. ! o ■ Q &< A c i . If r i 1 in I 6 > Q s Q i , is i fi ! II ° ■S| o a c u a s o 30 Wellington and Maryborough— continued. Martinborough .. Masterton Mount Cook Otaki Pahiatua Petone Picton Renwicktown Tenui Thorndon Quay .. Upper Hutt Wellington South 1 3 1 4 10J 1 2 2 o 6 1 5 19 1 2 2 2 Canterbury and N. Otago — contd. Rakaia Rangiora St. Albans Sheffield Southbridge Sumner Sydenham Temuka Timaru Waimate Woolston i i 1 1 1 1 1 1 2 2 7 2 1 1 2 1 1 1 1 3 2 9 2 1 •• 1 i i i i i 2 1 1 1 o ■■ i '' Totals U i ii 102 i 119 i i i i Totals i i i 9 80 4 6 102 g 1 i 1 Dunedin— Dunedin, Central King Street Alexandra South Anderson's Bay .. Balclutha Bioad Bay Gavcrsham Ghatto Creek Clinton Clyde Cromwell Green Island Kaitangata Lawrence Middlemareh Milton Mornington Mosgiel Naseby North-east Valley Ophir Outram Owaka Palmerston South Port Chalmers .. Ravensbourne .. Roslyn Roxburgh St. Bathan's St. Clair South Dunedin .. Tapanui Waikouaiti Waitahuna Waitati Woodhaugh __ Nelson and Westland— Greymouth Ahaura Blackball Brunnerton Charleston Collingwood Denniston Hokitika Kanieri Karainea Kumara Lyell Motueka Nelson Okarito Reefton Richmond Ross Seddonville Spring Grove Stafford Takaka The Port Westport 1 3 1 80 4 1 1 1 3 38 5 1 1 1 i 1 1 1 5 1 1 1 1 1 1 2 1 1 8 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 2 1 1 1 1 1 3 I 1 1 1 1 6 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 2 1 1 1 2 1 1 1 1 2 1 1 1 1 1 4 1 1 1 1 1 7 i i i i i i I i 1 . 1 1 1 1 1 6 1 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 3 i ,, 1 7 1 3 1 1 X 1 1 1 1 4 ••! I ' ' i i 1 Totals 1 5 36 43 i Canterbury and North Otago— Christchurch Addington Akaroa Amberley Ashburton Belfast Bingsland Cheviot Coalgate Culverden , Pairlie Geraldine Glenavy Hampden Kaiapoi Kaikoura Kurow Leeston Lincoln Linwood Little River Lyttelton Methven New Brighton .. Ngapara Oamaru Oxford Papanui Phillipstown Pleasant Point .. -i l l 5 1 89 1 2 1 5 1 1 3 1 49 1 2 1 6 1 1 l 1 Totals 8 3 88 "" .. I " •• i 1 75 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 i 1 1 1 1 1 1 S 1 1 1 G 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 6 1 1 1 7 1 1 1 1 i Southland— Invercargill Arrowtown Bluff Gore Half-moon Bay .. Lumsden Mataura Nightcaps North Invercargill Orepuki Otautau Pembroke Queenstown Riverton South Invercargill Waikaia Winton Wyndham 1 1 1 1 7 1 2 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 10 i q Q 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 2 1 1 1 1 1 i I •• ( ! i i " "I 1 Totals 1 i 25 31 i Grand totals .. 8 4 1 58 528 (i 626 22 ii 4 21 i

H.—l6

16

APPENDIX C. Retukn showing Casualties in the New Zealand Police Foboe during the Year ended 31st March, 1904. Retired under Police Provident Fund Act .. .. .. .. .. 10 Resignations .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 9 Deaths .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 4 Dismissals .. .... .. .. .. .. .. .. 2 25

APPENDIX D. Return showing the Proportion of Police to Population and Cost of Police per Inhabitant in each of the undermentioned Places.

Note. —Populations taken from official estimates as on the 31st December, 1903. Approximate Cost of Paper— Preparation, not given; printing (1,775 copies), £14 7s.

By Authority: John Mackay, Government Printer, Wellington.—l9o4. Price 9d.]

OT Place. 0 ' Cost ol Police to Potation, i Per Inhabitant. tlexnarkfl. Jew Zealand 1 to 1,898 s. d. 2 10£ Number o£ police, 626 ; net expenditure (vide Appropriation Account for year ended 31st March, 1904), £125,152 Is. 6d. Population, 875,648 (including Maoris). Vide Appropriation of Revenue, 1903-4 — viz.: Number of police, 1,515 ; vote, £278,572. Population, 1,208,854. Vide Estimates of Expenditure, 1903-4 — viz.: Number of police, 2,290 (exclusive of 75 Native trackers); vote, £429,018. Population, 1,431,629. Vide Estimates of Expenditure for Year ending 30th June, 1902—viz. : Number of police, 358 ; vote, £76,604. Population, 368,823. Vide Estimates of Expenditure for Year ending 30th June, 1903 —viz.: Number of police, 878 (exclusive of 10 supernumeraries and 80 Native trackers); vote, £167,413. Population, 515,530. Vide Estimates of Expenditure for Year ending 30th June, 1904 —viz.: Number of police, 504; vote, £129,031 5s. Population, 226,954. Vide Taimanian Statistics, 1902—viz. : Number of police, 245 expenditure, £37,362 14s. 2d. Population, 179.487. 'ictoria .. 1 to 798 4 71 Jew South Wales .. 1 to f>25 5 I If iouth Australia 1 to 1,030 4 1| Jueensland 1 to 587 6 5J Vestern Australia .. 1 to 450 j. 11 4J 'asmania .. 1 to 732 4 1|