THEFT OF CLOTHING.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XLIX, Issue 3751, 7 February 1928, Page 2

THEFT OF CLOTHING.

BY “PEEPING TOM.”

Masterton, February 4.

“This man is a sort of “Peeping Tom,” who sneaks roUnd the banks of rivers prying on girls and children; he is a regular waster, and is not fit to be at large,” said Sergeant Dyer in the Magistrate’s Court, this morning of Arthur Reginald Boyd, aged 37, who appeared on a charge of stealing at Masterton on Friday an article of clothing, the property of a woman. Accused, who was not represented by counsel, pleaded guilty. It was stated by the police that at about 7.30 on Friday evening two women went bathing in the Waipoua River at the rear of the cemetery. While they were in the water a third party saw accused tampering with their clothes, which had been left on the bank. It was later found that the garment concerned was missing. Upon being advised, the police found accused and another man in the cemetery somewhat under the influence of liquor. When questioned accused denied all knowledge of the affair, and invited a personal search, which was made. It was found that accused was wearing the garment beneath his own clothing. Accused maintained that it was the property of his sister, and only admitted his guilt a few minutes prior to the sitting of the Court. , At the request of accused, who asked permission to obtain a lawyer, the hearing of the case was adjourned until Monday morning.