Probation For Shop-Lifting

Northern Advocate, 1 August 1938, Page 9

Probation For Shop-Lifting

Twelve months’ probation, on condition that she did not enter shops in that time, was the penalty inflicted on Henrietta McKenzie Pierce, widow, of Whangarei, by Mr G. N. Morris, in the Magistrate's Court this morning. Defendant was charged with the theft of serviettes valued at 3/9, the property of J. R. McKenzies, Limited, Cameron- Street. She pleaded not guilty.

Employees of the Arm deposed having seen defendant putting the serviettes into her bag. When questioned, she had explained that it was her intention to ask the assistant, who was busy at the time, to put them aside for her until the following day, when she would receive her pension and pay for them. This explanation was borne out by a statement made to the police, and also by defendant in the court. • [ am afraid I cannot accept that.' said the Magistrate. "I have noticed that city magistrates have adopted the policy of putting such people on probation on condition that they do not enter stores." he continued. "I think this is a case for such a convic--1 ion." Defendant, who was not represented in court, was ordered to pay witnesses’ expenses amounting to 8/-, and was placed on probation for 12 months on condition that she did not enter stores. An order was made for restitution of the serviettes.