SUB NORMAL WOMAN STEALS FROM SHOPS

Sun (Auckland), Volume I, Issue 120, 11 August 1927, Page 1

SUB NORMAL WOMAN STEALS FROM SHOPS

IN FAILING HEALTH TWO £5 FINES IMPOSED A WOMAN in failing health, who had a heart attack before her case was called, was fined £5 on each of two shop-lifting charges at the Police Court to-day. She was Olive Foley, aged 42, who admitted stealing eight bottles of Aspros and other goods valued at 16s 9d from one firm, and clothing valued at £1 8s 5d from another. Chief-Detective Ward said that accused was seen hiding the Aspros, and when she was searched, the other missing goods were found. Mr. L. P. Leary, who appeared on accused's behalf, said that she was a respectable woman, whose husband was in a good position. She had never lacked the necessities of life.

IN EXTENUATION “She is now in failing health,” said Mr. Leary, “and is subject to heart attacks, having had one this morning.” “She is also passing through a critical period of her life,” he said. "In some countries evidence of this is regarded as a defence.” The detective who arrested her said she was excited, obstinate, contradictary, and altogether sub-normal. Mr. E. C. Cutten, S.M.: There are generally painful and extenuating circumstance* connected with these cases, but there is a class in the community which must be taught to recognise that the offences cannot be countenanced. He then imposed the fine of £5 on [each charge, _