THEFT OF FUR COAT

Dominion, Volume 30, Issue 190, 8 May 1937, Page 8

THEFT OF FUR COAT

Man With Long List Sent to Prison Prisoners who had been convicted at the criminal sessions of the Supreme Court, Wellington, which concluded on Wednesday, were sentenced yesterday by Mr. Justice Ostler. For stealing a fur coat from an hotel, John Paton Hardy, dealer, aged 31, was ordered to be detained for reformative purposes for a period not exceeding two years. Counsel, Mr. M. G. Neal, said that while serving a term in jail prisoner had resolved to turn over a new leaf, but when he came out he found that his wife had died. Since then he had “gone to the pack” completely. The majority of his offences were the result of drinking bouts. “Ton are only 31 years of age,” said his Honour to prisoner, “but according to the calendar you have 31 convictions, of which no fewer than 16 are for theft. You have been granted probation several times. lam afraid I can’t do anything but sentence you to a substantial term of imprisonment.” Sex Offences. Frank Ernest. Parker, motor mechanic, aged 23, on a charge of unlawful carnal knowledge was ordered to come up for sentence if called upon, lie was represented by Mr, R. Hardie Boys. Sentence of three years’ imprisonment with hard labour was imposed on Aubrey McCleary, hotel porter, aged 37, who had pleaded guilty to offences against males. Mr. J. A. Scott appeared for prisoner. Described by his Honour as a menace, John Joseph Richard Lewis, labourer, aged 48, was sentenced to three years’ hard labour on a charge of indecent assault on a male. Prisoner was represented by Mr. Scott.