YOUNG GIRL’S LAPSE

Hokitika Guardian, 26 January 1926, Page 1

YOUNG GIRL’S LAPSE

MONEY STOLEN FROM FIR APS MAIL.

CHRISTCHURCH, Jan. 25. Described as being the only daughter of a widowed mother, an 18V year-old Christchurch girl, exceedingly smart looking, and well dressed, caused a mild stir when she stepped into the clock in the Lower Court on Saturday morning, and admitted having stolen three letters, two of which contained a total sum of 30s, from her employers. Statements made by Detective-Ser-geant J. B. Young were to the effect that tho girl had been employed by a very large and well known firm ill the City as a clerk for the past 18 months. It was part of her duty to handle the mail. She had kept hack three letters, evidently believing they contained money. One of the letters contained £l, another 10s, and the third one no money at all. Altogether nine letters were stolen, but she denied taking more than tho three.

On behalf of the young woman Air F. D. Sargent pleaded for leniency. At the time the thefts were committed, he said, she was receiving a wage of aliout 30s a week, out of which she had to pay 27s Oil as board. Her mother lived. in the country, but Lad a certain amount of private means, and she provided her daughter with clothing, etc. “Apparently the only explanation for her action,” he said, “is that slic most likely wanted something to spend, and yielded to the temptation to steal. But, counsel went on, “if she had not adniited her guilt the police would probably not have been able to prove these charges.” Therefore he asked that his Worship place her on probation for a term and, because of her youth and liecause her employers were willing to take her hack, and lay no further charges against her, he requested his Worship to suppress from publication in the newspapers her name. As the vonng woman was only 181- years ol age, publication of the name might have a serious effect on her and her mother. Tho presiding Alagistrate, Air H. i ■ Widdowson, S.AL, said ho would icmand, the girl to appear on Thursday next, so that the Female Probation Officer could report to him. In the meantime he would make ail order for lho suppression ol her name, and also allow her bail. _____