Theft, 18th November 1867
Tuesday.
Before R. Harris, Esq.
Stealing a Watch
Robt. Henry Vines, a ragged little boy, was charged with stealing a gold watch, the property of Mr. Atkins.
—Lawrence Ward said said he was going along the road to Thurmaston yesterday morning, when he saw the prisoner, who came up to him and asked him how much money he had. Told him a shilling, and he replied that that was not enough. Asked him what he had got, and he showed him the gold watch produced, which he offered to sell for 1s. and a pipe. Took the watch from him, and took him to Thurmaston. When at the public-house there, prisoner said he had it from a house in Southampton-street, and afterwards that he had it from Mr. Atkins house in Friar-lane. Took the boy and the watch there, and gave the watch to Mr. Atkins.
— Edward Atkins said, yesterday afternoon prisoner was brought to his house by the last witness. Missed the watch about 11o'clock in the morning from the mantelpiece in the front room. Had given information to the police. When prisoner was brought, asked him how he came to do this, and he replied that he was destitute, and two boys who were gone for sailors told him he could get into St. Martin's School-house any time, so he went into the parlour and saw the watch on the shelf, and took it. Defendant also said he hoped witness would not prosecute him.
—P.C. Farmer said he received prisoner in charge at the station, and the wtch from Mr. Atkins. Told the prisoner the charge. He made no reply except, "Does he mean to prosecute?"
—Remanded to Friday.
Leicester Chronicle, [Saturday] November 23rd, 1867