EXPENSIVE JOKE

Bay of Plenty Beacon, Volume 2, Issue 200, 16 August 1940, Page 5

EXPENSIVE JOKE

' • " — ' ■ ■ • i i . .... A THEFT OF SUIT CASE COSTS TO BE PAID Two more men were charged before Justices in the Opotiki Police Court with the theft of a suitcase, at Raukokore. Two youths recently went before the Children's Court in connection with this charge but the two men failed to put in an appearance and an ox-der was issued for their apprehension. The men, Eruera Harawira and Hi Honana, elected to be dealt with summarily and pleaded not guilty. Sergeant Isbister said both accused attended a sideshow performance, and, in company with two ' others, left about midnight. It w.a? later discovered that the suitcase was missing and £9 worth of goods was subsequently recovered.,. Sergeant Isbister added that there was some perturbation at Raukokore at happenings in that district. Robert Mann gave evidence concerning the loss of various articles valued at £13 8s 9d, and also the recovery of certain things a day later. There was still about £4 worth of articles and the portmanteau missing. Examined by Mr East, witness said that he connected Honana with the theft because when they visited his bouse accused said he could tell who took the articles. One of the boys who was previa ously charged gave evidence concerning being given a portmanteau containing some articles. Witness took the things home and threw the portmanteau away. •, . Plea Changed. The • other boy who was previously charged stated that they all left the show together on. horses. Hi .Honana gave accused certain articles rolled up in the banner, which witness took home. Honana would say nothing about the thing, but he gave witness further articles to take to the store. The canvas did not drop from witness* horse. Examined by Mr East, witness said he did not know who took the suitcase. Constable Hira gave . evidence concerning inquiries made and stat ed that Honana denied all knowledge of the suitcase., Harawira said he picked np the suitcase offi the road. Witness read statements taken from the two accused. Questioned by Mr East, witness said ho. did not know if either of the accused had had any drink on the night of the show. At this stage Mr East indicated that the accused Honana wished to change his plea to one of guilty. Sergeant Isbister said that the costs in connection with the case amounted to £26 17s 9d, not including the cost of the lost goods. In asking for leniency on behalf of Honana, Mr East stated that the men had had drink and the suitcase was taken more as a joke..The Bench convicted both accused and admitted them to probation for two years, stating that they would have, to go to work where the police/ might direct. The expenses, would have to be paid by both accused, each of whom would have to pay £12 Is 2d. /