Blue Films And Gambling Before Police Crashed In (Press, 10 June 1976)

On 9 June 1976, Phillip Ronald Henley Brown, a 30-year-old man, was convicted in the Magistrate’s Court for operating an illegal gaming house and for liquor offences following a police raid at a hall on Marshland Road. The hall had been hosting events attended by 150 to 200 men, which featured indecent films and was set to include a live lesbian act. Brown, having pleaded not guilty, was found guilty on both counts by Mr B. A. Palmer, S.M., and was remanded on bail, with sentencing scheduled for 16 June. Detective Sergeant J. G. Doyle testified regarding the police raid that took place after officers had bought tickets to the event. Upon entering the semi-dark hall, the officers noted a makeshift bar serving various alcoholic beverages. Shortly after their arrival, Brown announced a break for showing films, which were described as pornographic and included explicit sexual acts. Following this, he organised a gambling game known as "unders and overs," where he accepted bets with a minimum of $1 and a potential pot of up to $150 during play. The gambling portion of the event involved Brown exclusively using the dice, collecting payments, and distributing winnings. As the festivities progressed, Brown indicated that there would be further films and a live lesbian performance, even preparing a mattress in the hall for the act. However, the atmosphere quickly changed when the police raid prompted Brown to instruct attendees not to panic. He was reported to have made a loud declaration for everyone in the hall to remain silent and blended into the crowd when officers arrived. Police evidence revealed the seizure of over $250 in a gambling bag belonging to Brown and the finding of gambling equipment in a car linked to him. Upon questioning, Brown admitted to using his projector for the films but claimed he did not actively participate in their showing or in renting the hall and buying liquor. He did acknowledge receiving a share of the gambling profits. Witnesses corroborated that despite Brown's claims, he was actively involved in the events and displayed a controlling presence throughout the night. Detective Sergeant Doyle confirmed that Brown exercised managerial authority over the night's proceedings, arranging the screenings and managing the gambling activities. Other officers noted his role as instigator and facilitator of the events. The Magistrate remarked that while Brown might not have been the principal responsible, he played a significant managerial role and was engaged in the unlawful activities taking place at the hall. The prosecution underscored the need to discourage such activities in the community. The case highlights the serious legal repercussions of organising illicit gambling and entertainment, as well as the efforts by law enforcement to curb such operations. Brown's upcoming sentencing will determine the consequences based on these findings.

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