Evans v. Bollen

*The facts were proved, as stated in the declaration, but the de- pi:g44 fendants counsel made two objections to the jurisdiction of the court: *- 1st. That this was a suit under the second section, and the circuit court could not take original cognisance of a case of penalty or forfeitnre, as the judicial act expressly declared, that the district court should have exclusive original cognisance of all suits for forfeitures and. penalties incurred under the laws of the United States.” (1 U. S. Stat. 76, § 9.) 2d. That the offence was committed in the state of New York ; and ought to be tried there, upon the principles of the common law, adopted by the constitution of the United States, and various acts of congress. Const. Art. III., § 2 ; Amend. Const. Art. VIII, IX.; 4 Black. Com. 350; 3 Ibid. 359, 360; 2 Dall. 335.

It was agreed, that a verdict should be given for the plaintiff, subject to the opinion of the court on these points ; and after argument, by E. Tilghman, for the plaintiff, and Levy, for the defendant—

The Couet declared, that they had no jurisdiction of the cause; and directed a non-pros, to be entered.

The Cassius, 2 Dall. 365; Hall v. Warren, 2 McLean 382.