Clothes theft by tramp (1870)

Post date: Nov 01, 2013 7:11:4 PM

Extract from Maidstone Telegraph 17th September 1870

ROBBERY BY A HOPPER AT WATERINGBURY.

Ellen Smith, a tramp, was charged with stealing a shawl, apron, and gown, the property of Ann Thomas, on the 8th Sept.,at Wateringbury. Prosecutrix stated that she and prisoner lodged and slept together at a lodging house, at Wateringbury. They were working for Mr Spencer hopping. On Thursday last she left the articles in question in the hop-house, where also left prisoner in bed. A person afterwards came and told her that prisoner had left with some of her (prosecutrix's) clothes. Hearing the direction prisoner had taken she went on the road after her, and upon overtaking her she found the articles produced upon her, which she identified as her property.

Prisoner, who pleaded guilty, was sentenced to six weeks' hard labour.