HABITUAL CRIMINAL

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXIII, Issue 22532, 24 September 1936, Page 13

HABITUAL CRIMINAL

! FALSE PRETENCES CHARGES ! RETURN TO UNITED STATES [by telegraph—PßESS association] WELLINGTON, Wednesday A long list of convictions has been built up by John Edward Owens, aged 41, motor mechanic, since his arrival as a stowaway in 1928. He wishes to return to America, but under the New Zealand law he cannot be deported. If his behaviour is good, however, he will be assisted to return. Owens was dealt with in the Supreme Court to-day by Mr. Justice Blair on charges of obtaining credit by fraud, and of obtaining money by false pretences. His Honor said he proposed to impose what would be only a nominal penalty, a month on each charge, the sentences to be concurrent. He also would declare Owens to be an habitual criminal. "I have very strong hopes," His Honor said, "that if you behave yourself and help the prison authorities you will find it not very long before you arc able to return." Prisoner: Yes, but I only get 10s a month if I do work. His Honor: I know you do not get very much. Prisoner: It would take me about years to get my fare. His Honor: I am not saying they will expect you to find the whole lot Prisoner: Suppose the American Consul can get me a boat m the meantime ? His Honor: That is in the lap of the gods; that is all I can do.