Probation for dishonesty

Press, 17 May 1984, Page 17

Probation for dishonesty

An unemployed car groomer was placed on probation for 12 months and ordered to pay $842 compensation when he appeared yesterday for sentence before Judge Frampton in the District Court at Rangiora on six charges of dishonesty.

Frank John Hassan, aged 21 (Mr J. Woods), had previously pleaded guilty to the offences which took place during March and April. Mr Woods said the offences had been committed when the defendant was in extreme financial difficulties. He had debts of $6OOO to $7OOO. Having committed the first offence he decided it was a means of making up outstanding debits and the other crimes had resulted. Hassan had admitted breaking and entering Cockram Datsun, in Colombo Street with intent to commit a crime on March 17; unlawfully taking a Honda motor-cycle, valued at $l9OO, the property of Brian Williams Roberts on March 28; stealing a 12 volt car battery, valued at $7O, the property of Herrons Motors

(1976), Ltd, on March 28; stealing two deck chairs valued at $63.90, from the house of Patricia Loffhagen on March 28; stealing four wheels, tyres, car tools and a petrol cap, to a total value of $782.40, the property of Blackwells, Ltd, on March 31; and breaking and entering Cockram Datsun, with intent to commit a crime.

Mr Woods said that Hassan had been drinking in a hotel on the night of the first offence. He was walking past the premises where he worked when he saw beer bottles and litter scattered around. He investigated and found that the premises had been broken into. He decided not to report the matter and took several items of equipment. Mr Woods said that he denied taking cheques and cash.

Mr Woods said Hassan had applied for over 100 jobs since the offence and now realised he had placed himself in a very difficult position. Hassan was ordered to pay the compensation by July 11.