PROBATION FOR WOMAN

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 87, Issue 41, 19 February 1943, Page 3

PROBATION FOR WOMAN

THEFT AND FORGERY WHILE CIVIL SERVANT “Though the amount is not very large you were in a position of trust and. therefore, this is a serious matter,” said Mr. Justice Smith in the Supreme Court, Wanganui, yesterday, when admitting Phyllis Winifred Large, former cashier, Public Tr i st, Wanganui, to probation for 12 months. Prisoner, for whom Mr. V. B. Willis- appeared, had admitted five charges of theft and two of forgery, involving a total amount of £l9 6s Id. She was also ordered to take out a prohibition order. “This is a distressing case inasmuch as it witnesses the lapse of a woman hitherto of excellent character, and whose husband is overseas,” said Mr. Willis, making a plea for probation. Prisoner was a young married woman with a child in her custody and hau made full restitution. When approached by the police she made a frank statement in order to clear the matter up and was very sorry for her actions. The probation officer’s repute was favourable. “Why you did these things I do not know,” said His Honour, who added that counsel had put prisoner’s position very fairly. It had been suggested that she was under the influence of liquor, but this would not account for her actions.

“I propose adopting ti e suggestion made and, as you are a first offender, will admit you to pronation for one year,” His Honour added.

Prisoner was ordered to pay the costs of the prosecution, £1 Is, within two months.