Judicial Mix-Up Alleged
p. 14 · Read in the full issue
In Samarai
SAMARAI residents are taking a lively interest in the Wil kinson-Bock case, which has some extraordinary features.
L. H. Wilkinson, a trader, and Bock, a Native Labour official, were both concerned in charges involving the alleged theft of canned meat, property of the Administration.
Wilkinson was tried by Mr. Jus tice Bignold, found guilty and sentenced to 18 months’ hard labour. (Certain peculiar features of his imprisonment, involving two high officials in charges of contempt of court, are reported elsewhere in this issue.) Bock then came up for trial. Mr.
Justice Bignold said that, as he had already heard the evidence, he thought another judge should try Bock.
Mr. Justice Kelly tried Bock and —on what is alleged to be practically the same circumstances and evi dence—found him not guilty.
The Wilkinson brothers (there are two, H. L. and John D.) have many friends in Samarai district and they, naturally, are demanding a review of the whole puzzling case.
It does not appear, on what has been reported, that the authorities can very well leave it where it is.
The circumstances do emphasise the embarrassments which can be caused a judge in criminal cases by the absence of a jury system.