SYSTEMATIC PILFERERS

Sun (Auckland), Volume II, Issue 510, 13 November 1928, Page 1

SYSTEMATIC PILFERERS

Shop-lifters Heavily Fined

STOLE GOODS VALUED AT £l5O

A SYSTEMATIC campaign of pilfering from the big city ■TI drapery stores has been carried on by Mary Madeline Jessie Thompson and Ada May Edgecomb for some months past. This morning at the Police Court they admitted charges of stealing goods of a total value of nearly £l5O, and were fined £2O and £4O respectively.

Thompson, a domestic aged 35, pleaded guilty to stealing goods valued at over £IOO, the offences being committed on October 19 and 26 and November 2. Edgecomb, also a domestic, aged 45, in addition to admitting the offences with which Thompson was charged, also pleaded guilty to three charges of theft involving a sum of £l9 during September and October. Four drapery firms suffered from the depredations of the women, and the goods taken included handbags, wallets, face powder, toilet requisites, stockings, underwear and other clothing. “These two women were caught in the act,” said Chief-Detective Hammond. “A third woman who was with them was also an accomplice, but we could not bring a charge against her as no stolen goods were found in her possession. The house where the two accused live was found to be full of stolen goods and the estimated value is £ 150.“ Mr. Hammond did not think that the goods had been worn, but said that they were damaged by rough handling. Counsel urged that both women had borne good reputations hitherto. Edge-

comb had been deserted by her husband and had lived a hard life supporting her children. She was in bad health, as evidenced by Dr. Lindsay, who had supplied a certificate to that effect. In fact four months ago she had been unable to work. Thompson also had three children, and had led a decent life. Mr. F. K. Hunt. S.M.: They like the excitement of stealing. Counsel asked for clemency, as publicity would be the real punishment. The women’s friends would assist them to pay any fine. “They can thank Major Gordon, the probation officer, for escaping: a term of imprisonment,” declared the magistrate. “I have been told that tho older woman would probably die if she were sent to gaol, so as I cannot let one off without the other, I shall inflict a fine.” Edgecomb was fined £4O and Thompson £2O, the women being given ten days to find the money. “They are exceedingly fortunate.” commented Mr. Hammond as the women left the court. “I quite agree,” replied the magistrate, “but in the face of the probation officer’s report I had to let them off.”