Sheffield Independent January 11th, 1934
Smart Police
Pawnbroker “Combine” Traps Two Conisborough Thieves
Smart work by Barnsley Police and a pawnbroker was recognised by Doncaster West Riding Magistrates yesterday, when two men were charged with theft of jewellery worth £30 from a Conisborough house. Accused were John Thomas Brannon, (28) labourer of Conisborough and Walter Cranmer (28) clerk, Doncaster. Brannon was sent to prison for three months, while Cranmer was bound over.
Mr. Joseph F. Marsh, of Drakeshead Lane, Conisborough, returned home on 5th January to find his house had been entered and the jewellery was missing. The police were informed and a description of the missing articles circularised.
On 6th January Brannon entered a pawnbroker’s shop at Barnsley and offered rings in pledge, giving a local address. The pawnbroker, however, was suspicious and communicated with the police. Bannon ran out of the shop.
Bus Routes Watched
“The Barnsley police acted very well in this matter” said Superintendent Huddlestone and put their detectives on all the bus routes leading out of Barnsley.
Detective Holt boarded a bus travelling to Doncaster and from the description furnished by the pawnbroker, recognised one of the passengers as Brannon. He took him to the police office.
When a search was made practically all the stolen property was found on the prisoners. It was stated a knuckle-duster was found on Brannon. Superintendent Huddlestone added that the pawnbroker also acted with smartness. A pawnbroker was supplied with many lists in the course of a day and it was very smart of him to identify the rings stolen. Detective Holt of the Barnsley Force also deserved commendation. Accused pleaded “Guilty.”