THEFT OF SUITCASE

Bay of Plenty Beacon, Volume 8, Issue 61, 3 April 1945, Page 5

THEFT OF SUITCASE

INCIDENT AT OHOPE ECHO OF SPORTS MEETING The theft of a suitcase with con-tents-valued at £10 14s from the Oliope sports field on New Year's Day last found sequel in the Whakatanc Policc Court last Tuesday morning when a Maori Rua Wil-t liams picaded guilty to the charge of appropriation. Messrs G. A. Brabant and J. King J.P.s. were on the Bench.

Sergeant Farrell explained how on the occasion of the Caledonian sports at Ohope a large suitcase belonging to one of the patrons was left temporarily near the fence. Apparently accused helped himself to it when no one was looking and the matter was reported to the police. Subsequent to enquiries accused's house was visited and the suitcase, and portion of its contents recovered. Although it was conceded that accused bore a good character, the police felt that in justice to the public this type of offence which Avas particularly mean should be severely dealt with as it was growing fairly general amongst a certain section of the community. Mr G. R. West of the Native De--3 partment, gave evidence regarding accused's character stating that he was considered one of the steadiest workers on the Ngatiawa scheme where he had been employed for a long time. He was a non-drinker and could be thoroughly relied upon. Any leniency would be appreciated. In sentencing the accused to one month's imprisonment, the Bench pointed out that as he had already served three weeks the term , would be soon ended and he would be enabled to icjoin the scheme. Whilst appreciating the plea from the Department it was impossible to inflict any lighter sentence without the risk of establishing a serious precedent. An order was made for the return

of the property.