CHARGES AGAINST YOUTHS.

Auckland Star, Volume XLVII, Issue 69, 21 March 1916, Page 2

CHARGES AGAINST YOUTHS.

ALLEGED THEFTS. TWO COMMITTED FOR TRIAL. The hearing of the series of theft charges against three youths, William Wadham (Mr. H. H. Ostler), George Ferris Vcrc Townshend (Mr. W. J. , Napier), and Ellis Vernon Walker (Mr. R McVeagh), -was concluded at the Police Court yesterday afternoon, before Mr. F. V. Frazer, S.M. Wadham and Townshend were charged that they stole from the launch Manu a magneto valued at £7 10/, the property of Messrs. Bailey and Lowe. Townshend was further charged that he stole from the launch Stella a quantity of electrical gear valued at £3 10/, the property George Fraser. The charges against Walker were that lie stole an engine, and dynamo, valued at £125, the pro-' pcrty of Win. Crosher and Sons, aiid alternatively that in conjunction with Townshend he stole the engine and a quantity of electrical goods, to a total value of £174 14/9, from the same firm. With regard to the case against Wad'barn, his Worship Baid that he had gone through a statement made by Wadham ;to the police. it was clear that the accused knew that Townshend proposed to steal the magneto, and that his pre- , sence at the time of the theft was not a mere accident. He did not benefit by the theft of the magneto, and, as he had previously borne a very good character, he would be convicted and discharged. Charles Albert Crosher. giving evidence in the case against Townshend and Walker with respect to the engine and other gear, stated that Walker had ; been, and still was, in the employ of Crosher and Sons. The engine and dynamo referred to, valued at £125, were lent to Walker in June last for the lighting of a schoolroom in which an entertainment was to be held. It -was not returned, aud witness next saw it at the wharf police station. Cross-ex-amined, the witness said that Walker had frankly stated where the machine was stored when asked about it. He was an industrious boy, and the firm did not intend to dismiss him. Mortimer Kay gave evidence that the two accused persuaded him to join them in starting a picture show at Northcote, stating that they had all the gear except £10 worth of" fittings, and Crosher and Sons would lend an engine and dynamo. He put in £10, but the show was not a success. The accused entered "Not guilty." and were committed to the Supreme Court for trial. Bail in self and one surety each of £75 was allowed.