A “HAPPY HUNTING GROUND.”

Star (Christchurch), Issue 16814, 17 August 1922, Page 4

A “HAPPY HUNTING GROUND.”

AUSTRALIAN CRIMINALS AVARNED OFF. AUCKLAND, August 16. In sentencing two prisoners for false pretences and fraud. Air Justica Stringer made it clear at the Supremo Court that men with dubious records in Australia would have to realise that New Zealand is not a happy hunting ground for persons of their calibre. In the case of James Francis .Nelli* man, convicted of obtaining credit from electrical firms by representing that he was starting in business, and would push their particular lamps, whereas he sold them and left for Australia with the proceeds, his Honor said that it was not a case for probation. Prisoner came from Australia with the deliberate intention of raiding the community in Auckland. He arrived here on April 12. and got away on Alay 5 with £2OO. “ I must make it plain,” said his Honor. “ to men of criminal disposition in Australia that they cannot look upon New Zealand as a happy hunting ground.” A sentence of a year’s imprisonment was imposed. In sentencing Lionel Norman Haigh for false pretences and fraud in connection with partnerships in an alleged agency business, his Honor said. “T will treat him in the same way as T treated the other Australian gentleman —one year’s imprisonment.”