S.M. Court.

Manawatu Standard, Volume XL, Issue 7844, 23 May 1904, Page 5

S.M. Court.

PALMERSTON-MONDAY,

(Before Mr A. D. Thomson, S.M.)

A ROGUE AND A VAGABOND. Thomas O'Connor (Mr Coou-r) pleaduc! not guilty to a charge* of being a rogue and ,a vagabond, am..- W ith consorting with reputed thieves and women of ill-fame. Constable De Norville, Dcteofive Benjamin, Constables McDonald and De Loree, and Detective Broborg gave evidence as to "accused consorting with bad characters both here and in Wellington, but particularly during the last few months" m Palmerston. He had, it was stated, been a- friend of Gardiner recently convicted of tobacco stealing), and other well-kuown thieves.

After the adjournment, his Wor. ship gave judgment in this case, Accused must, he thought, be convicted of consorting with reputed thieves. 'He had been throe times convicted, and the case was not one in wliich leniency should be shown. Accused would be sentenced to sixmonths' imprisonment with hard labour.

THEFT OF JEWELLERY.

John Sheehy was charged with the theft of jewellery, .valued at £42 10s, the property of Mrs I" Smith. JMr Moore appeared for accused, and Sergt. Stagpoole prosecuted. The iirst witness was Isabella Smith, who said she stayed' at the Post Office Hotel, owned by her son-in-Jaw. On the evening of the 20th', between 15 and 20 minutes to eight she left her room, in which was her jewellery, shutting, but r.ofc locking the door. When she returned about 5.15 p.m. the jewellery was gone. It had been left in the drawers in the Duchess chest. The drawer was on the floor. The jewellery produced was that which vas taken. She valued1 it at between £30 and £40.

Henry Smith, who worked at xho hotel, deposed that accused came into the bar at the hotel shortly after S o'clock on; the eveniujg- of tho robbery. Did not take much notice of the man, Could not say that he was drunk nor could he say he was sober. After he had a ci'rink, he stopped talking some time in the bar.

(Left Sitting)