James J. Martin was, at one time, the publisher of the Clunes Guardian and Gazette. He also worked as a reporter on the Horsham Times.
In 1882, Martin ws sentenced to six months' imprisonment for the larceny of a cheque. He died the following year in mysterious circumstances in the Union Hotel, Horsham. At the time of his death he was unemployed and in financial difficulties.
Major source: 'Death of Mr J. J. Martin.' The Portland Guardian 5 July 1883: 2
