Rodd's electorate included the Braidwood goldfields and he gave evidence before the commission which was critical of magistrate Rowland Hassall.
The commissioners reported that Hassall "has refrained from taking any open or active part against the bushrangers or their associates, to preserve himself and his property from outrage and depredation.
He has throughout evaded his duty as a Magistrate, by systematically abstaining from adjudicating, or in any way taking part in cases against such offenders or their connections".
[5] Rodd was represented by Henry Stephen and Edward Butler, instructed by Joseph Leary, in successfully defending the case in a trial lasting 15 days.
In 1871 he sought that the government pay the balance of £755 6s, which was initially refused,[7] however the parliament authorised the expenditure in January 1873.