1914/40 Rex vs. Chong Ching – carnal knowledge
As part of the Chinese Historical Wrongs Legacy Initiative, the BC Archives has digitized a selection of documents related to criminal prosecutions against the Chinese community from 1866 to 1914, found in GR-0419. These are mainly records created as part of the preliminary hearing held before a judge in order to determine whether there was sufficient evidence to proceed to trial. There are often lengthy witness statements, and cross examinations by both prosecution and defense lawyers. The eventual verdict is sometimes recorded on the outside of the docket. They offer a fascinating glimpse into 19th and early 20th century criminal activity around the province, and ways in which the Chinese community was stereotyped. The records offered for transcription here are a small selection; for additional digitized material from GR-0419 click here.
*Please note that archival source materials are original historical documents that have not been censored, reviewed or otherwise altered by the Royal BC Museum. Some materials may contain content that is racist, sexist or otherwise offensive. In addition, GR-0419 records deal with subjects such as assault, murder and abuse, which may upset some readers. The Royal BC Museum is only the custodian of archival materials; the content does not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the Royal BC Museum.
*All transcriptions are provided by volunteers, and the accuracy of the transcriptions is not guaranteed. Please be sure to verify the information by viewing the image record, or visiting the BC Archives in person.
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4.
Q. He pushed you until you were in what position ?
A. Until we were on our backs.
Q. And Celia, what position was she in ?
A. On her back.
Q. What did you do then ?
A. Pushed up my clothes.
Q. What did he do after pushing up your clothes ?
A. Got on top of me.
Q. What did he do after he got on top of you ?
A. Made connection.
Q. With who ?
A. With me.
Q. After he made connection with you what did he do then ?
A. Got on top of Celia.
The accused was asked if he had any questions to ask witness. The Interpreter stated that the accused had some questions to ask, but on being asked by His Worship for information as to what the accused desire to ask, the Interpreter stated that the accused had nothing to ask.
CELIA LANG. Sworn.
Q. How old are you ?
A. 15 next December.
Q. Do you know what it means to take an oath ? To tell the truth ?
A. Yes.
Q. What does it mean ?
A. You go to Heaven if you tell the truth, but if you tell lies you go to Hell.
Q.
BC Archives GR-0419 Box 184 File 1914/40 / BRITISH COLUMBIA. ATTORNEY GENERAL. / Attorney General documents.