QSR1832/1/5/4

Depositions of John Smith, labourer of Stotfold. Charles Wray. In the case of Thomas Blaisley accused of assaulting John Smith, constable of Stotfold, in the execution of his office.

31 October 1831

From: 1831 To: 1832

John Smith: in consequence of a noise and tumult which he heard in the street of Stotfold. He went out for the purpose of preserving the peace and preventing disorder. There was an assembly of upwards of a 100 person, some of whom were threatening to light. With assistance he received one of the men who he considered more disorderly, whereupon Thomas Blaisley came up and swore an oath and held up his fist in one of his assistants faces. He pushed Blaisley away but Blaisley came up again and was going to strike James Blows whom he charged to assist him in taking the prisoners brother Reuben Blaisley into custody. James Blows knocked down the prisoner upon which Blaisley drew a knife and aimed a blow at Blows. During the attack made by the prisoner upon, he and his assistants Charles Wray and James Blows, Reuben Blaisley escaped. Whilst he was endeavouring to quell the riot the prisoner had frequently held his fist in his face. Charles Wray: he had heard the evidence of John Smith and knew it to be correct.

item

Smith, John,
Wray, Charles,
Blows, James,
Blaisley, Reuben,
Blaisley, Thomas

STOTFOLD, assault, constable, rioting