SALESMAN FINED £100

Dominion, Volume 37, Issue 199, 20 May 1944, Page 6

SALESMAN FINED £100

Caught With 30,000 U.S. , Cigarettes (By Telegraph.—Press Association.) AUCKLAND, May 19. “I think this is a ease for the maximum penalty for it is linked with the black market, which in turn is linked with the crime of the country,” said Mr. Luxford. S.M., when convicting William Francis Keenan, salesman, on a charge of having 30,000 American cigarettes in his possession with intent to defraud the Customs Department. A plea of guilty was entered. Mr. Meredith, representing the Collector of Customs, said that iu August last year, it came to the knowledge of the police that large quantities of American cigarettes were being sold in the Toko Toko, Dargaville, district. On August 18, defendant’s car was seen at Toko Toko and it. was searched, three boxes containing 30,000 cigarettes being found. "It is often said that never has Auckland's underworld -been in such big money as at present.” said the magistrate. “This is closely linked with illicit liquor and kindred trades. WVhcn a man js found with 30.000 cigarettes, he is in business in a big way. I will impose the maximum fine of £lOO, and in view of the serious nature of the offence order immediate payment, in default three months’ imprisonment with hard labour.