"DRUNKEN SPREE."

Auckland Star, Volume LXXI, Issue 224, 20 September 1940, Page 9

"DRUNKEN SPREE."

SEQUEL IN POLICE COURT. HAN STEALS FRIEND'S CASH. The theft of £15 under rather unusual circumstances was disclosed in the Police Court when James Alexander Williamson, a cook aged 61, pleaded guilty to stealing this sum, the property of Arthur Edward Smith. Detective-Sergeant Walsh said Williamson was unemployed and while in the city on Saturday morning last met Smith, whom he had known previously. Williamson had no money, but Smith lent him 4/ and also bought a good deal of liquor in hotels that day. Liquor was also taken home to Smith's place. While Smith was lying asleep on a couch Williamson saw three £5 notes, which were alongside him. These he took and went home. On Monday morning Williamson went to town and that day cashed two of the £5 notes, which he spent mostly on liquor. When he was seen by Detective Cromwell oh Wednesday he had £3 8/4 in his possession. This the accused said was all that was left out of the £15. In view of Williamson's previous good character and his age, the magistrate admitted him to probation for 18 months end ordered him to make restitution of £11 11/8. The £3 8/4 found on Williamson is to be returned to Smith.