Lawyer May Try For Parole For Jorgensen (Press, 17 August 1982)

On 17 August 1982, Ronald John Jorgensen, currently facing charges of assault, may soon have his lawyer apply to the Parole Board for his release. Mr D. C. Fitzgibbon, Jorgensen’s legal representative, indicated that after observing the proceedings of a two-day preliminary hearing, he would consult with other legal counsel about pursuing parole. Jorgensen, who is serving a life sentence for the 1964 machine-gun murders of two men in Auckland, was recalled to prison after being released on parole for a second time in April 1982. He was arrested following an alleged assault on a 66-year-old man, Charles William Richard Hands, on 26 May 1982. Following the preliminary hearing, Jorgensen sought bail, which was declined by Judge Fogarty despite the fact that a favourable bail outcome would not negate the parole recall. The assault case was heard in isolation, as Jorgensen is entitled to the same treatment as any other defendant. The police opposed the bail application, but Judge Fogarty said Jorgensen could apply for bail again if circumstances change. Jorgensen's trial for the assault is scheduled for 27 August 1982. He has maintained a not guilty plea, asserting that he acted in self-defence after being slapped and spat on by Mr Hands. The evidence presented suggested some provocation, and while a witness testified that Jorgensen struck Hands with an open hand up to three times, questions remained regarding the medical evidence related to Hands' injuries. Detective Senior-Sergeant R. A. Meikle testified about arresting Jorgensen, who expressed confusion over the complaint against him, claiming he only gave Hands a light tap. However, during his arrest, Jorgensen mentioned having witnesses who could corroborate his account. Further witness testimony indicated that Hands had been verbally abusive toward Jorgensen before the incident escalated. The details surrounding the incident indicated potential complexities, as Jorgensen claimed that Hands' physical aggression towards him constituted grounds for self-defence. The discussion during the hearing delved into various conflicting accounts of the event, including the testimonies of medical professionals, which raised questions about the cause and extent of Hands' injuries. Ultimately, even after arguments for dismissal were made, the judge concluded that a prima facie case of assault existed, leading to Jorgensen’s commitment for a jury trial. Throughout this process, his legal team has emphasised the legitimacy of his right to self-defence based on the circumstances of the confrontation. Jorgensen, now 49 years old and described as an artist, continues to navigate the legal ramifications of his past and the recent assault charge. If convicted, he faces a maximum sentence of one year in prison.

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