Rich Mans Theft of Suitcase

Manawatu Times, Volume 64, Issue 30, 6 February 1939, Page 3

Rich Mans Theft of Suitcase

STORY OF WAR INJURIES SYDNEY, Jan 27. A former commander in the British Navy and a man of wealth, Francis Charles Harrison, aged 43, pleaded guilty at the Perth Police Court to the theft of a suitcase valued at 42s od. A story of war injuries, mental troouble and drink was related, and accused was let off with a caution, on payment of £2 17s 6d costs. According to his counsel, Mr F. Curran, Harrison has an estate in England valued at £35,000. In outlining accused’s career, his counsel said he had served with distinction in the Navy, having taken part in the Ostend raid, and was attached to the Dover patrol in the Great War. His decorations included the D.S.O. and bar, and the Croix de Guerre. Counsl also stated that Harrison had been under medical treatment for a mental condition caused by a war injury. When he felt an attack coming on he had gone to the police station and asked to be locked up. Later the same day he stole the suitcase. From the Dock, Harrison said he could go into hospital if necessary. “I am perfectly all right when I am not worried, but having my money stolen turned me off,” he said. The detective who made the arrest said that Harrison had been drinking heavily.