High-Stakes Escape: Fugitive Justice Sutherland Fails to Face Music

In a shocking turn of events, fugitive Justice Sutherland managed to evade a sentencing hearing at the Court of Oyer and Terminer in Brooklyn on March 16, 1894. The convicted justice was facing trial for his alleged debauch with friends in this city, a charge that carries significant weight. Sutherland, however, failed to appear before Judge Browne, leaving the courtroom in a state of turmoil.

A bond of $8700 had been set for Sutherland’s release, but with his failure to appear, the bond was forfeited, leaving him a fugitive from justice. The friends of Sutherland attempted to downplay the situation, suggesting that his absence was due to excessive drinking rather than a deliberate attempt to flee. However, the damage was done, and the authorities wasted no time in issuing a warrant for Sutherland’s arrest.

The courtroom was packed with a great crowd of spectators, all eager to witness the passing of sentence. Instead, they were left with a sense of disappointment and frustration. Sutherland’s counsel, Foster L. Backus, was present in court, but his efforts to secure a continuance were unsuccessful. The case was postponed until Monday, but for Sutherland, the delay may have come too late.

The forfeited bond, valued at $2500, is just the beginning of Sutherland’s woes. Three other indictments are also pending against him, and with his fugitive status, the odds are stacked against him. Ex-Senator Birkett and Robert Bonds, both influential figures in the community, were present in court to show their support for Sutherland. However, their efforts may have been in vain, as Sutherland’s future looks increasingly bleak.

As the authorities scramble to track down the fugitive justice, the people of Brooklyn are left to wonder what lies ahead. Will Sutherland be brought to justice, or will he manage to evade the law once again? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain – Sutherland’s actions have sparked a firestorm of controversy that will not soon be extinguished.