THEFT OF GROCERIES

Dominion, Volume 26, Issue 28, 27 October 1932, Page 6

THEFT OF GROCERIES

Former Shop Manager TWO YEARS’ PROBATION A term of probation for two years was imposed on Edwin Charles' Hill, aged 24, in the Petone Police Court yesterday, when he pleaded guilty to a. charge of stealing goods to the value of £l5. Detective W. McLennan eaid that Hill was appointed manager of the Star Stores at Lower Hutt from October 1, 1931, to August 27, 1932. After he had been transferred to another branch, a shortage of goods was found at his former shop. On being interviewed, Hill admitted the theft. He had not been before the court previously. Counsel for defendant, Mr. E. W. R. Haldane, submitted that the action could be made a civil claim rather than a criminal one. It was Impossible for any owner in the country’not to find a shortage of goods in his sliops. Moreover, had defendant not admitted his guilt it would have been very difficult for the offence to have been proved. Defendant had never been in trouble before, and was not a member of the criminal community. As a result of the offence he had lost his position, but restitution would be made. "In view of your past good character, I shall admit you to probation,” said the magistrate, Mr. W. IT. Woodward, S.M., “providing you refund the value of the goods stolen by paying such instalments as the probation officer may direct.” Application for suppression of defendant’s name and the name of his former employers was refused.