MANY CHARGES.

Auckland Star, Volume LXVII, Issue 102, 1 May 1936, Page 8

MANY CHARGES.

TWO MEN INDICTED.

CONSTABLE BEFORE COURT.

SHOP-BREAKING ADMITTED,

(By Telegraph —Press Association.)

HASTINGS, this da v.

The gallery at the Hastings courthouse was packed this morning for the hearing of charges brought against James Baxter, a police constable, and William Edward Cleaver, a night watchman, who were arrested 011 the premises of Roach's, Ltd., last week-end as a result of a trap set by the management. The accused were each charged before Mr. <T. Miller, S.M., 011 five counts of breaking, entering and theft, and Baxter was further charged separately 011 three counts dating in January, 1934, of breaking, entering and theft and also 011 six counts of stealing from premises. Cleaver was also separately charged 011 one additional count of theft. In all, 20 counts were preferred, involving six business premises and a varied assortment of goods, produce and other articles to the total value of £110 10/4.

Evidence was given by the managing director of Roach's, Ltd., that he and another person, as a result of missing goods, slept 011 the premises last Saturday. They locked up about II pm., and at 1 a.m. two men were seen to enter the shop. The police were summoned and when accused were accosted in the shop they said they found the door unlocked, and were inspecting the premises. Witnesses identified the goods' stolen from their premises, and the police gave evidence concerning statements made by the accused, in which they admitted the charges.

On the summary charges, Clraver was sentenced to one month's imprisonment, and Baxter to six months' imprisonment. Ihe accused both pleaded guilty to the remaining charges, and were committed to the Supreme Court for sentence.