Attorney R.L. Sigmon Missing from Arson Trial, April 15, 1926

Sigmon Missing from Gastonia. . . His Character Assailed by Lawyers During Arson Case Trial

Gastonia, April 14—Where is Attorney R.L. Sigmon?

That question was asked many times in superior court here today during the trial of W.S. Clark, store keeper who was acquitted today of arson, the burning of his grocery store last fall.

Evidence as given by J.E. Henderson and wife included statements that R.L. Sigmon paid the two $200 to sign a paper clearing Clark of rumors that he set fire to the store in order to secure the insurance on his stock and fixtures, said to be worth between $4,000 and $5,000.

Both state and defense lawyers issued subpoenas for Sigmon to come into court and testify about the statement he is alleged to have paid the Hendersons to sign. Sigmon is missing.

In his argument to the jury George B. Mason, who is assisting Solicitor John G. Carpenter in the prosecution of Clark, declared that Sigmon knew the real secret of the case, knew the God Almighty’s truth.

“Where is Sigmon when his character is assailed?” asked Mr. Mason during the course of his strong argument to the jury. “Sigmon is the only man in this world that has the secret. Sigmon can’t be found. He won’t come in and defend his own character. His own client (Clark) does not want him. Why did Sigmon call him (Henderson) to his own office and ask him to sign a statement at night? Why? Think about it.”

From page 3 of The Concord Daily Tribune, Thursday, April 15, 1926

newspapers.digitalnc.org/lccn/sn92073201/1926-04-15/ed-1/seq-3/