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Summary: Magistrates Court. (Star - Christchurch, 30 April 1886)
On 30 April 1886, the Christchurch Magistrate's Court, presided over by E. Westenra and H. J. Hall, dealt with several notable cases.
One significant case involved Amy Bock, also known as Laing, who was charged with obtaining goods valued at £7 9s 10d from G. L. Beath and Co. under false pretenses. On April 13, Laing approached the store, claiming that the items were for Mr. Whitefoord of Kaiapoi, even providing a false address for delivery. However, it was soon discovered that Mr. Whitefoord had no knowledge of the transaction. After her arrest on April 23 in Wellington, Laing confessed to Constable M’Cormack but blamed Mr. Haxell for the incident. During the hearing, testimonies revealed Laing had a history of health issues that affected her mental state, with suggestions that she might not be responsible for her actions. Despite the plea for leniency due to her mental condition, the court ultimately ruled she was guilty and sentenced her to one month of hard labor.
Another case involved George Henry Cook, who was charged with stealing a pair of earrings valued at 5s from Kitty Codling. The earrings went missing shortly after Cook had visited her residence. Although he claimed the earrings were given to him, the court found insufficient evidence to support his story. Including a prior conviction for a similar offence, he was likewise sentenced to one month of hard labor.
The court also heard from two juvenile defendants, Joseph (14) and William Whitford (12), accused of stealing two flutes valued collectively at 8s 6d. The boys admitted to one theft but had no previous offenses against them. The magistrates displayed leniency, allowing the boys to go free with a warning that any future misbehavior would lead to consequences.
Judgments were rendered in several civil matters as well. The court issued default judgments in favor of various plaintiffs against defendants who failed to appear in cases concerning unpaid debts. Notably, in the claim of Phillips v. Landergan regarding damages from a fire, the court deferred judgment after hearing further evidence.
Another civil case featured Mr. Holland against Warner, relating to a dispute over a coach ticket. Holland claimed he sought a ticket for the Otira Gorge but refused to pay additional fees for a box seat. Warner, acting as an agent, refused to refund Holland's payment, asserting he could not be held liable for the ticket dispute with the coach owner. The magistrate ultimately sided with Warner, stating that Holland had incorrectly pursued the claim against the agent rather than the coach operator, leading to a nonsuit without costs.
Overall, the proceedings reflected a range of criminal and civil issues, showcasing the challenges of justice administration in 1886 Christchurch.
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