THEFT OF BEER.

Hauraki Plains Gazette, Volume XXXXII, Issue 2801, 16 November 1931, Page 4

THEFT OF BEER.

ANOTHER YOUTH CHARGED. ADMITTED TO PROBATION. When a case concerning the breaking, entering and theft of beer from the Paeroa Brewery on August 10th came before the Magistrate at the November sitting of the Paeroa Court it was stated that another youth was implicated. This young man, Frederick John Harvey, was arrested recently near Kaitaia, and w'as brought before Messrs P. Williams and G. P. Lamb, .J’s. P.. on Saturday morning. The charge was one of breaking and entering by day, and the theft of 18 bottles of beer valued at £1 Ils 6d, but before accused was asked how he would plead Sergeant Calwell asked the Bench for leave to reduce the charge of common theft. He pointed out that the original charge was an indictable one, and even if it was taken to the Supreme Court it was doubtful whether a greater punish',ment would be inflicted while tHe State would be put to great expense. In the other case, the Magistrate had agreed to a reduction. This course was agreed upon by the Bench, and accused pleaded guilty. In stating the facts of the case, Sergeant Calwell said that Harvey had left Paeroa and had eventually been located in the Far North. His employer, who was known personally to him, was prepared to take Harvey back and give him constant work, as well as provide him with a good home. In these circumstances he did not think the case should be treated (otherwise than had been done by the Magistrate, and he would recommend that the Bench give Harvey a good talking to and order him to come up for sentence within six months if called upon. The youth had never been in trouble before and when arrested had made a frank statement of his actions. This statement, given to the Kaitaia police, was read by Constable Hooker. In it Harvey admitted filing through a chain on the brewery door. The Bench spoke to Harvey of the seriousness of his nation, and expressed the hope that such an impression had been made upon him that for the rest of his life he would keep out of trouble. The conviction would be recorded against him, and would be held against him should he ever be brought before a Court. A conviction was entered and Harvey was ordered to come up for sentence if called upon within six months. He wns also ordered to pay 15s 9d, half of the cost of the beer stolen.