The Pahiatua Herald. PUBLISHED EVERY EVENING. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 1939. THE CAR THIEF.

Pahiatua Herald, Volume XLVIII, Issue 14064, 10 February 1939, Page 4

The Pahiatua Herald. PUBLISHED EVERY EVENING. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 1939. THE CAR THIEF.

That übiquitous customer the carthief, whose offence still sails under the pale flag od “conversion” instead of the true piratical ensign “theft,” continues li4s activities unblushingly, iie is a source of growing worry to the public. To quote the figures for a single year as an example of this particular criminal’s activities, in 1936 there were 578 cases of “unlawfully converting vehicles.” Of these 103 were dismissed or admonished and discharged, five were committed to the Supreme Court and there were 470 convictions, l ines and other punishments apparently did not have the required effect. The offence is largely confined to young men and youths. Half of the offenders are under the age of 17 years, and between 80 and 90 per cent are under 23 years. In deciding punishment, a magistrate naturally is mindful of tlie ultimate effect on the offender. Imprisonment is rightly avoided with first offenders because of the harmful effect of bringing youth, into contact with hardened criminal influences. A fine frequently loses its effect, aj.nl admonishment does not always go home Something more effective is needed as a reminder and a deterrent. Considering the youth of the class, the use of the birch cannot be overlooked I'be seriousness of the offence does not finish with the actual conversion Apart from the loss of property, even if a temporary loss, and the inconvenience to car owners, there is a greater potential danger to be feared. That is the threat to human life lYlany stolen cars are involved in accidents. Innocent people risk serious injury and death. It is a very complex problem that demands tlie closest attention of the law and the public. Motorists can do their part b? seeing that every temptation io steal a car is removed. The police and traffic officers can co-operate in advice to motorists. It has been suggested that the Government should enlist the aid of probation officers in finding a fitting punishment that will also be a deterrent. If they favour birching, then it should be instituted. since other methods seem to have failed.