SENTENCE FOR FRAUD

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume LXIV, 2 June 1930, Page 5

SENTENCE FOR FRAUD

MAN IN CLERICAL CLOTHES V ' < MONEY BORROWED AT CLUB ; LONDON, 21st May. Henry Frederick Mercer, who, when he was arrested on 30th March was wearing; clerical clothes, was sentenced to six months’ imprisonment . oh* charges of false pretences and 'for obtaining credit fraudulently. At a previous hearing it was stated that xvhen he was first charged, Mercer was reluctant to disclose his identity. Subsequently, lie stated that he. came from Australia, and referred the police to the clerical directory. He had also referred them to the Rev. F. C. Spurr, a well-known Baptist clergyman who was formerly in Melbourne, hut that gentleman had regarded Mercer as an impostor. ‘

The police gave evidence that Mercer entered the British Legion Club at Southport and told the steward he was in difficulties because his brother had not sent on his luggage. He borrowed his fare to Manchester; He called the following day, saying his belongings '

had arrived without his cheque-book, lie borrowed a further ss, for which he made out a cheque on blank paper. This was returned marked, “No account.” Mercer’s counsel said that Mercer was charged with fraud in Zurich in 1927, and since then had found a difficulty in obtaining a livelihood.