ASSAULT AND THEFT.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXIV, Issue 19621, 27 April 1927, Page 16

ASSAULT AND THEFT.

INCIDENT IN RESTAURANT.

THREE MONTHS* IMPRISONMENT.

Charges of stealing £3 12s from Peter Demetrie and assaulting him were denied by Alick Ward, aged 23, in the Police Court yesterday. Demetrie, proprietor of a restaurant in Queen Street, said he was taking money from a customer at the pay-desk when accused went up and thrust both his hands into the till, drawing out notes and silver. Accused then struck him and made for the door. Witness followed and caught him, but it took four men to hold him while the police were summoned. Corroborative evidence was given by two waitresses. Constable Collins said accused was shghtly under the influence of liquor. _ Accused said the waitress serving him made some remark about his wife. When he went up to the pay-desk the proprietor told him not to come back any more, as he made trouble and was always talking to the waitresses. Demetrie caught hold of him and tore his shirt and then accused hit him. Mr. F. K. Hunt, S.M. : Well, how about the money ?—Act used: I do not know anything about that. The Magistrate: So this is what you call a "frame up?" It is all lies.—Accused: Yes. _ , ... The Magistrate: Well, I believe it is all true. You will be sentenced to two months' imprisonment for assault and three months for theft, the sentences to be concurrent.