ASTONISHING STORY.

Manawatu Standard, Volume LIII, Issue 63, 10 February 1933, Page 10

ASTONISHING STORY.

CHARGES OF THEFT. Per Press Associa.tion. AUCKLAND, Feb. 9. An astonishing story, and a true one, was told in, the Police Court today when Stephen Steric, aged 25, described by the police as a Greek gipsy showman, admitted two charges of theft. Steric arrived by the Aorangi on Saturday, and on the same day told a. motor salesman’s fortune for 2s 6d, and while his back was turned took 11s 6d from tho till. Two days later he called at a barber’s shop kept byBarney Elias, and offered to tell his fortune. Ho stared at Mr Elias, who felt himself become spellbound. Mr Elias was asked for money, a.nd produced some silver, which the accused “blessed.” Accused then asked for some notes, and Mr Elias unlocked a safe and took out all the notes he had. After some time accused left the shop. Mr Elias then felt better, but discovered that he was £5 4s lOd short in his cash. Evidence for the prosecution stated tlia.t accused had plenty.of money, and in addition he had opened a savings account on Tuesday, and on the following day banked £74 10s. His family were well-known show people nn Tasmania. Accused offered to pay tho cost of a police escort to Wellington if he coukl sail for Sydney by the Monowai. The police and the Magistrate agreed that this was the best course'.-' The accused was finod £5, and was ordered to repay the money. lie stole, and a - deportation order was issued..