THEFT OF GOODS.

Otago Witness, Issue 2955, 2 November 1910, Page 53

THEFT OF GOODS.

DISHONEST RAILWAY OFFICIALS. HAWERA, October 27. For some time there have been complaints as to alleged pilfering at Hawera railway goods shed. The police set a watch, and on Saturday obtained information which led to the suspension of two porters and a clerk. In the Magistrate's Court to-day Norman Lawrence Wild (clerk) and Leonard Gilbert and Emile F. Davey (porters) pleaded guilty to stealing from the goodis shed two hams and a miscellaneous collection <of drapery, of a total value of £7. Detective Sidd'els, who prosecuted, pointed out that enormous -losses were occasioned as a result of thefts from railway stations. It appeared that the accused were on the late shift, and left the shed about 10 o'clock. They returnedlater on, and opened travellers' camples, taking goods therefrom, together with some hams. Council for the accused applied for probation. Mr KenricK. S.M.. said he was opposed to probation when offences of the "nature before the court were committed by persons holding positions of trust. The ac cused were sentenced to 14 dbys' imprisonment.