Case Dismissed

Four lads, named Maceroft, Cooper, Taylor, and Mills, were charged with gambling in Ivanhoe lane on the 1st July.

Police-constable Kendall said on the 1st inst. he was on duty in Denaby lane, and saw the four defendants tossing coins. He watched them for about ten minutes, when he saw Cooper give Maceroft some money. He charged them with gambling, and Maceroft hesitated and said he had borrowed 2d. from Cooper that morning, and was paying him back again. Taylor turned away when he got to within three yards. Mills remained with the others.

Mr. Hickmott, who appeared for the defence, cross-examined the witness, who stated that he had been told off to watch for gamblers. He asked, “What sort of a game do you call that?” but Taylor made no reply.

Police-constable Thornton said on the date named he was concealed behind hawthorn bush in Denaby lane, and saw the four defendants approaching towards him. When they reached a spot 20 or 25 yards distant they commenced tossing money in the air. Shortly afterwards Police-constable Kendall, who was in plain clothes, joined him, and got to within five yards of the defendants before they recognised him. He charged the defendants with gambling, and Maceroft denied it, although he held some money in his hand. He said he owed Taylor 2d. and was about paying him back. The defendants were gambling for twenty minutes.

The defendants were called, and gave evidence to the effect that Maceroft asked Taylor for change, and then handed to Cooper 2d., which he owed him for train fare. The defendants stated that they observed the constable lying behind the hedge talking to Miss Dutcheman, who was standing in the road.

The Bench dismissed the case.