The Great Northern Bribery Scandal Ends in Acquittal
After a day-long investigation into allegations of juror tampering in a major condemnation case, Judge Osborn dismisses the charges due to lack of evidence.
The story, cleaned up
A cleaned-up reading of the newspaper page: spelling and layout repaired, one story lifted off a crowded page. It follows the original closely but it is not a transcription. The original page is below; read it if a detail matters.
The examination of Eugene Way and George A. Gates for alleged attempts to bribe jurors in the Great Northern condemnation case was resumed before Judge Osborn yesterday. The proceedings lasted from 9:30 in the morning until 8 o'clock in the evening, resulting in the discharge of both accused. The prosecution alleged that Gates approached juror Frank J. Wilder on February 1, claiming to represent Way and offering a commission if the Oregon Improvement Company received a high valuation for their condemned property. Gates, however, provided a solid alibi, testifying—corroborated by staff at the People's Theater—that he was occupied with salary accounts during the time of the alleged bribe. Judge Osborn concluded that while jury tampering is a grave crime, guilt must be established beyond a reasonable doubt, and the evidence provided was insufficient to proceed.
“Everyone should understand that although classified as a contempt, jury bribing should and would be punished as a crime. People should know that there is scarcely a greater crime in the category.”
This case highlights the intense civic tension surrounding the growth of Seattle’s infrastructure. The influence of railroad and improvement companies on public resources remains a central, recurring theme in the city's political history.
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