YOUNG MEN'S LAPSE

New Zealand Times, Volume L, Issue 11648, 12 October 1923, Page 5

YOUNG MEN'S LAPSE

THEFT OF GOODS ADMITTED CREPE-DE-CHINE STOLEN FEOAI EMPLOY ERS. “LED INTO TROUBLE.” An admission that they had perpetrated a series of four thefts extending over a period of a little over one month was made by two young men, Jack Bcrtenshaw and Ilcury Gordon Donaldson, before Air E. Page, S.AI., at the Alagistrate’s Court yesterday. Outlining the facts, Chief-Detective Kemp explained that the two offenders were both young men, aged 19, and had. stolen the goods, all of which consisted of boxes of crepe-de-chine valued in all at £SO, from their employers, Messrs Alakower and Alcßeath and Company, Ltd. “Bertcnshaw,” said the ehief-detcc-tivc, “has been in the firm’s employ for 18 months, Donaldson for tu r o and a half years. It is alleged that they were approached to take the goods and supply them to a person. They succumbed to the temptation, and delivered the goods. The sum that each received Was £2 ss. Nothing is known about them, and they have never been before the court before.” Representing the two accused, Air J. F. B. Stevenson declared that they had been approached by a carrier in the firm's employ, who suggested what the chief-detective had explained. He was to take the stuff, and after paying the two a price for it. dispose of it and make whatever profit he could for himself. “They have really been led into this matter,” said counsel, “and although the carrier denies it I do not think there is any doubt about it. They are only 19 years of age. and are just starting life. No good will come of sending them to gaol, as they are willing to pay back the whole of the £3O in instalments.” His AVorsliip. Mr E. Page, S.AI.. intimated that the defendants would bo kept in custody* until Alonday morning, when a report would be obtained from the probation officer.