Mareo Guilty (Evening Post, 27 February 1936)

The murder trial of Eric Mareo culminated dramatically in Auckland on February 26, 1936, when the jury delivered a verdict of guilty for the murder of his wife, Thelma Clarice Mareo, with a strong recommendation for mercy. This unexpected outcome surprised many in the courtroom who had anticipated a manslaughter verdict, leading to a tense atmosphere as the verdict was read. Eric Mareo, a 44-year-old musician, had been on trial since the previous week. The prosecution argued that he caused his wife's death through administering overdoses of veronal, a barbiturate. After deliberating for just over four hours, the jury returned to announce their decision. Mareo, responding to the Registrar's inquiry about any reason against the sentence, expressed his belief that the evidence presented was fair and that the verdict was a "travesty of justice." Justice Fair commenced the sentencing by acknowledging the efforts of both the defense and prosecution and commended the jury for their careful consideration throughout the trial. Despite the strong recommendation for mercy from the jury, the judge stated that the law required him to pronounce the death sentence, assuring the jury that their recommendation would be forwarded to the appropriate authorities. In his summation, Justice Fair emphasized the significance of circumstantial evidence, suggesting that the jury should view the case as a collection of factors that either supported or undermined the accusations against Mareo. They had to determine whether Mrs. Mareo died from veronal poisoning and whether it was administered with murderous intent. The jury was tasked with ruling out possibilities of accidental overdose, suicide, or administration by another person. The judge reviewed the medical evidence presented, urging the jury to consider the credibility and potential biases of expert witnesses. He encouraged them to evaluate the circumstances surrounding Mrs. Mareo's death, particularly regarding her susceptibility to veronal, and to consider the lack of evidence supporting the theory of accidental overdose or suicide, as the drug was securely stored away in a suitcase. The trial duration was notably lengthy, lasting around ten days, and the jury’s effort earned them an exemption from further service for five years. Mareo’s case highlighted significant legal questions surrounding circumstantial evidence and the determination of intent in a murder charge, setting the stage for ongoing discussions about judicial processes and the complexities of legal verdicts.

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eric mareo, thelma trott