Frederick George Abberline joined the Metropolitan Police on the 5th January 1863, his first beat would be with N Division, Islington. On the 19th August 1865 Abberline was promoted to sergeant and transferred to Y Division, Highgate. In 1867 he was operating in plain clothes investigating the Fenians, this of course would never be printed in the newspapers. By 1871 Abberline was made a detective sergeant and his reputation was fearsome. It is interesting to see his progression through the ranks and the varied cases he was investigating.
Alfred Edward Calmer, 17, of 76, Bridport place, Hoxton, a greengrocer's assistant;
Henry Grant, 16, of 18, Great George street, Bermondsey, a tailor; and Frederick Grant, 15, of 5, Rydon street, gold beater, were charged with discharging fireworks in the Almorah road, to the annoyance of the inhabitants.
Islington Gazette Monday. Oct 1, 1864.
Clerkenwell.
Throwing Fireworks into a Church and Disturbing a Congregation.
Alfred Edward Calmer, 17, of 76, Bridport place, Hoxton, a greengrocer's assistant;
Henry Grant, 16, of 18, Great George street, Bermondsey, a tailor; and Frederick Grant, 15, of 5, Rydon street, gold beater, were charged with discharging fireworks in the Almorah road, to the annoyance of the inhabitants.
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| St John the Baptist church, Almorah Road. |
They were further charged with willfully disturbing the congregation at the Church of St. John the Baptist, by throwing a cracker into the church in Almorah road. From the evidence of Police constables Wansley, 445 N, and Abberline, 544 N, it appeared that last night they saw the prisoners letting off some fireworks, throwing them down areas and into parlour windows.
Before they could get to the prisoners Grant threw a squib into the window of the above church, and the sparks went on to the ladies, but fortunately their dresses did not take fire. The congregation were very much alarmed, but none of them were hurt. The prisoners were taken into custody, and on them were found some other fireworks.
Mr. James Ferguson, the churchwarden, said that the congregation were frequently annoyed by boys of the same description as the prisoners, not with fireworks, but with stones. The prisoners said that they were sorry for what had occurred, and it was by accident that the squib went into the church. Mr. D'Eyncourt fined Calmer and Grant 5s. each, and Grant 20s. which was instantly paid.
John Stroud, 16, and Henry Oxley, 15, two respectable lads, were indicted for stealing a handkerchief, the property of a person unknown, from his person. Frederick Abberline, police constable 544 N, said, between one and two o'clock on Friday, the 23rd, he observed the prisoners with another boy pushing against several gentlemen, and trying their pockets.
The boy not in custody took the handkerchief produced and flung it down, and said, "Lookout." The prisoner Oxley picked it up. Both prisoners ran away and were captured by witness. The Jury found them Guilty. Mr. Payne sentenced Stroud to 18 and Oxley to 9 months' hard labour.
At Clerkenwell, William Anderson, a porter, was charged on remand before Mr. Barker with stealing from his employer, Mr. Prince, of 2, Flora-villas, Hammersmith, the sum of 10/. 12s. The prosecutor formerly carried on business at 288, Pentonville road, and the prisoner was his porter.
On the 12th of June last year the prisoner was sent to the London and County Bank, Islington branch, with the above sum to place to his employer's account. Instead of doing so he ran away with the money, and nothing further was heard of him until Sunday week, when police sergeant Abberline 24Y, heard that he was detained at Chelmsford.
The sergeant went there, and took him into custody, and on telling him the charge the prisoner said he was sorry for what he had done, that he had spent the whole of the money, and had since been in the greatest distress.
To get bread, he further said, he had had to deliver bills for a travelling circus, and the thoughts of the robbery, together with his distress, had made him give himself up, and now that he had done so he felt more comfortable than he had since he had committed the robbery. Mr. Barker committed the prisoner, who made no defence, to the Middlesex Sessions for trial.
Charles Irish aged 19, a hawker, of Phipp street, Shoreditch, was charged before Mr. Barker with unlawfully gambling, by playing at a game called Chance, in the Metropolitan Cattle Market.
From the evidence of police sergeant Abberline, 24 Y, and police constable Witham, 86 Y, it appeared that yesterday the prisoner was seen in the market, and he was standing at a roulette table, which was covered with a cloth, and was gambling for half-pence.
They saw the prisoner pick up several lots of half-pence, and also saw him pass some to his confederates. When the police took the prisoner into custody he threw a quantity of half-pence away. The prisoner was well known to the police as the companion or notorious thieves, and the attendant at races as a skittle sharper.
The prisoner said he was not playing for half-pence, but only for cocoa-nuts. It was all a mistake to say that he was the companion of thieves. The police said there had been frequent complaints of gambling in the market. The prisoner had been seen in the City road with a roulette table, and was then removed.
Mr. Barker said the case was fully made out and sentenced the prisoner to six weeks' hard labour in the House of Correction, and directed that the table, spindle, and the cloth should be destroyed.
At Clerkenwell, John Fleet, aged 23, a labourer, of 59, George's road, Holoway, was charged before Mr. Barker with violently assaulting Henry Sabrams of George's road, costamonger, by stabbing him in the thigh with a knife, with intent to do him some grievous bodily harm, at Islington. Police Sergeant Abberline 24Y, handed in the following medical certificate
"5, Lowther cottages, Holloway, N, Oct, 7, 1867, This is to certify that Henry Sabrams is suffering from an incised wound of the thigh, an inch and a half long, produced by some sharp instrument -THOS. H. MITCHELL."
The prosecutor, who could hardly walk, said that he did not wish to prosecute, as he knew the prisoner to be a respectable man. From the evidence of Police constable Brooks 785 A reserve, it appeared that both the parties on Saturday night had been drinking, and had some words outside a beershop; they exchanged some blows, and then the prisoner took out a clasp knife and stabbed the complainant in the thigh.
When the constable was called the injured man was very weak from loss of blood. Of the two the prisoner was the more drunk. The prisoner said that he had had a drop of beer and that he had no questions to ask, and the prosecutor again said he did not wish to prosecute.
Mr. Barker said it was a case that could not be decided at present, and he should remand it for a week to see how the injured man progressed. He would take bail for the prisoner, himself in 40/. and two sureties in the sum of 10/ each. The prisoner was locked up in default.
Before they could get to the prisoners Grant threw a squib into the window of the above church, and the sparks went on to the ladies, but fortunately their dresses did not take fire. The congregation were very much alarmed, but none of them were hurt. The prisoners were taken into custody, and on them were found some other fireworks.
Mr. James Ferguson, the churchwarden, said that the congregation were frequently annoyed by boys of the same description as the prisoners, not with fireworks, but with stones. The prisoners said that they were sorry for what had occurred, and it was by accident that the squib went into the church. Mr. D'Eyncourt fined Calmer and Grant 5s. each, and Grant 20s. which was instantly paid.
The Standard 5th October 1864.
The boy not in custody took the handkerchief produced and flung it down, and said, "Lookout." The prisoner Oxley picked it up. Both prisoners ran away and were captured by witness. The Jury found them Guilty. Mr. Payne sentenced Stroud to 18 and Oxley to 9 months' hard labour.
Pall Mall Gazette 4th December 1866.
At Clerkenwell, William Anderson, a porter, was charged on remand before Mr. Barker with stealing from his employer, Mr. Prince, of 2, Flora-villas, Hammersmith, the sum of 10/. 12s. The prosecutor formerly carried on business at 288, Pentonville road, and the prisoner was his porter.
On the 12th of June last year the prisoner was sent to the London and County Bank, Islington branch, with the above sum to place to his employer's account. Instead of doing so he ran away with the money, and nothing further was heard of him until Sunday week, when police sergeant Abberline 24Y, heard that he was detained at Chelmsford.
The sergeant went there, and took him into custody, and on telling him the charge the prisoner said he was sorry for what he had done, that he had spent the whole of the money, and had since been in the greatest distress.
To get bread, he further said, he had had to deliver bills for a travelling circus, and the thoughts of the robbery, together with his distress, had made him give himself up, and now that he had done so he felt more comfortable than he had since he had committed the robbery. Mr. Barker committed the prisoner, who made no defence, to the Middlesex Sessions for trial.
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| Inside the Middlesex Sessions House. |
Islington Gazette 2nd April 1867.
Gambling is the Cattle Market.
Charles Irish aged 19, a hawker, of Phipp street, Shoreditch, was charged before Mr. Barker with unlawfully gambling, by playing at a game called Chance, in the Metropolitan Cattle Market.
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| The Metropolitan Cattle Market, Islington. |
From the evidence of police sergeant Abberline, 24 Y, and police constable Witham, 86 Y, it appeared that yesterday the prisoner was seen in the market, and he was standing at a roulette table, which was covered with a cloth, and was gambling for half-pence.
They saw the prisoner pick up several lots of half-pence, and also saw him pass some to his confederates. When the police took the prisoner into custody he threw a quantity of half-pence away. The prisoner was well known to the police as the companion or notorious thieves, and the attendant at races as a skittle sharper.
The prisoner said he was not playing for half-pence, but only for cocoa-nuts. It was all a mistake to say that he was the companion of thieves. The police said there had been frequent complaints of gambling in the market. The prisoner had been seen in the City road with a roulette table, and was then removed.
Mr. Barker said the case was fully made out and sentenced the prisoner to six weeks' hard labour in the House of Correction, and directed that the table, spindle, and the cloth should be destroyed.
The Times 8th October 1867.
At Clerkenwell, John Fleet, aged 23, a labourer, of 59, George's road, Holoway, was charged before Mr. Barker with violently assaulting Henry Sabrams of George's road, costamonger, by stabbing him in the thigh with a knife, with intent to do him some grievous bodily harm, at Islington. Police Sergeant Abberline 24Y, handed in the following medical certificate
"5, Lowther cottages, Holloway, N, Oct, 7, 1867, This is to certify that Henry Sabrams is suffering from an incised wound of the thigh, an inch and a half long, produced by some sharp instrument -THOS. H. MITCHELL."
The prosecutor, who could hardly walk, said that he did not wish to prosecute, as he knew the prisoner to be a respectable man. From the evidence of Police constable Brooks 785 A reserve, it appeared that both the parties on Saturday night had been drinking, and had some words outside a beershop; they exchanged some blows, and then the prisoner took out a clasp knife and stabbed the complainant in the thigh.
When the constable was called the injured man was very weak from loss of blood. Of the two the prisoner was the more drunk. The prisoner said that he had had a drop of beer and that he had no questions to ask, and the prosecutor again said he did not wish to prosecute.
Mr. Barker said it was a case that could not be decided at present, and he should remand it for a week to see how the injured man progressed. He would take bail for the prisoner, himself in 40/. and two sureties in the sum of 10/ each. The prisoner was locked up in default.
Islington Gazette 5th October 1869.
Conviction for allowing billiards to be played at illegal hours.
Mr Charles Hall of 6, Brecknock Road was summoned to answer the following complaint; "for that you on the 7th day of September 1869, being a person keeping a public billiard table in the parish of St Mary Islington, did unlawfully allow persons to play after 1 and before 8 o'clock in the morning on the 7th day of September."
Police Sergeant Abberline said that about 20 minutes past two on the morning in question he was passing the public billiard room kept by the defendant. He heard sounds as if someone was playing billiards and he heard someone say he would bet half a crown on the result of a certain stroke. He knocked on the door and he was let into the house by the defendant.
On going into the billiard room he saw some persons at play and there was money on the table which was picked up on his entrance by the persons playing. The defendant said he was very sorry for what had occurred, but he hoped no notice would be taken as they were all friends of his.
The magistrate Mr Barker said that he should not inflict the full penalty, but should order the defendant to pay the penalty of 20s and the costs 2s or in default seven days imprisonment in the House of Correction. The Fine was payed.
The Times 6th September 1870.
At the Highgate Police court yesterday,
Edward George, aged 28, a respectably dressed man, who said he was a dealer in French goods, living at 12 1/2, Cecil-court, St. Martin's lane, was charged before Colonel Jeakes and messers. Lermitte and Nicholson, with being concerned with three others not in custody in violently assaulting and beating James Fairweather, with intent to murder him, at a field in Millfield lane, West Highgate. Willian Callaway, 43 Passage street, Kentish-town, a painter, said between half-past 5 and 6 on Friday he was at Highgate ponds, in Millfield lane, when he saw seven or eight men coming towards the ponds. He was 200 yards off, and thought they were fighting.
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| Millfield Lane by John H Mcintyre |
He walked nearer, and saw a man knock the injured man down. It was not the prisoner. When he was down they began to kick him and punch him with their fists. There was hardly one who did not strike him.
Witness ran into the road to get a police constable. One of the men, who had a riding-whip, was striking the injured man and he believed broke it over his head. As soon as the men saw him running towards the road they a got into the two cabs that were waiting for them. He saw one of the men strike the injured man on the head with the butt-end of the whip.
He ran up to the man, who was bleeding very profusely from the wounds in the face. He at once conveyed him to the Duke of St. Albans public house, and thence he was taken to the Kentish Town police station in a cab. Mr. Peter Rawlings, M.R.C.S., the divisional surgeon of the Y Division, said the man was much injured about the face and head.
His right eye was completely closed, his upper lip was cut through on the left side. His chin was cut, and his head was cut and bruised. His elbow was injured, but no bones were broken. He had lost a great quantity of blood, but was sensible. The wounds were very dangerous.
Mr. William Henry Hurst, M.R.C.S., of 33, Great Wynard street, said he was called to the injured man on Saturday night, at 20, Glocester grove, Brompton. He described his injuries, and said he was in a very dangerous condition.
Police sergeant Frederick Abberline 24Y said he went with Detective Constable Dalton to Northbrook lodge, Lee, Kent, the prisoner's residence, on Sunday morning, and apprehended him. He was conveyed to the injured man's residence at Brompton.
The prisoner was placed between three others, and the injured man said, pointing to the prisoner, "That is one of the principals; that is the one who said 'throw him in the water." The Bench remanded the prisoner till Monday next. A solicitor who attended for the prisoner asked that he might be admitted to bail, which was refused.
Illustrated Police News 15th April 1871.
Marylebone. Committal of an old thief for trial.
Caroline Davis, aged twenty one, was charged before Mr. D'Eyncourt with stealing, from outside the shop, No. 21, Kentish Town road, 50 yards of cotton print, the property of Messrs. Alfred and Charles Daniels.
From the evidence of Detective Sergeant Frederick Abberline, of the Y division, it appeared that the previous night he saw the prisoner, in company with two other women, loitering in at the Kentish Town road. Suspecting them, he watched them, and saw them stop for some minutes looking in the window of Messers. A. and C. Daniels, linen drapers, of 207. Kentish Town road.
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| Kentish Town Police Station |
Under her shawl he found 50 yards of cotton print, which had been stolen from outside the prosecutors' shop. She was taken to the Kentish Town Police station and charged, and it was found she had undergone six months' imprisonment from this court for shoplifting. Mr. Mansfield committed the prisoner, who had nothing to say, to the next Middlesex Sessions for trial.
Islington Times 19th July 1871.
Robbing an employer.
Samuel Dines, age 44, a journeyman butcher residing at 27, Junction Road Holloway was charged with stealing two marked fourpenny pieces, the moneys of his employer, Mr William Stone, butcher of 12, Market Place, Junction Road Holloway.
The prisoner has been in the employ of the prosecutor for about 12 months and lately he had no doubt that the prisoner was robbing him to a large extent and in addition was inducing the younger men under him to commit the same offence.
The police were communicated with and an observation was kept on the prisoner, and though there could be no doubt the prisoner was robbing his employer the thefts could not clearly be brought home to him.
In consequence Mr Davy and Detective Sergeant Abberline of the Y Division had marked money given to them and they had different persons go to the shop and make purchases. On Wednesday morning after the marked money was paid to the prisoner the employer ascertained that two marked fourpenny pieces were missing, on which he called in Sergeant Abberline and gave the prisoner into custody.
When he was told the charge he said it was all a mistake and he had no money about him, but on being told to turn out his pockets he did so, and saying he was very sorry produced the two marked fourpenny pieces.
In court the prisoner pleaded guilty and said it was his first offence, such being the case he hoped the magistrate would take a lenient view of the matter and pass a light sentence on him.
The prisoner was sentenced to be imprisoned and kept to hard labour in the House of Correction for six calendar months.
The Times 22nd August 1871.
In the afternoon of the 31st of July both the prisoners, with another lad, who is not in custody, were in the Kentish town road, dodging in and out around the people on the pavement. They then crowded round the prosecutrix, who was carrying a baby on her right arm.
She thereupon felt a tug at the pocket of her dress she then felt for her purse, and finding it safe pushed it further down into her pocket and passed on. She was again rustled by the prisoners,
Gold being on her right side,when a woman called her attention to her pocket; she then found that her purse had been taken, and that a parcel wrapped in straw paper, which she had also in her pocket, was undone.
She immediately observed that Gold had a piece of paper in his hand ; she said, "You have a piece of my paper," when he put it in his month. Detective Abberline, of the Y Division, who had watched the prisoners, pursued and captured Heddy, who had run away; the third boy escaped.
Gold, at the police station, spat out the piece of paper which he had in his mouth; this was compared with that in the prosecutrix's pocket and was found to be of the same quality. The jury found both prisoners Guilty, and sentence was deferred.
The Standard 5th September 1871.
Marylebone,
Betting Houses,
Thomas Becky Chase, 41, a hair dresser, carrying on business at 17, Ernest street, Regent's Park, and Nathan Levi, 36. a tobacconist and newsagent, of 36, Ernest street, Regent's Park, were charged with using their houses as common betting houses, and betting with persons resorting thereto.
Mr. Superintendent Charles O'Louglin, S Division, said that on that morning, about one o'clock, in company with Inspector Charlwood and other officers, he went to the defendant Levi's house. He told the defendant that he would be taken into custody for keeping a betting house.
He said, "I admit making bets, but I have only one book." He also went to Chase's house, and took him into custody. No books were found in his house. Detective Sergeant Frederick Abberline, Y division, said, about half past twelve on the 17th of August he entered Levi's shop and made a purchase.
He heard the following conversation between two men and Levi. The first man said 'That is two-and-a-half to one," and the defendant nodded. The first man again said, "what are you going to put on?' and the second man said, " He has got my half-crown, but has not booked it yet."
He (witness) left the shop, and on Saturday, the 19th, he entered the shop of Mr. Chase. A man was leaving an inner room, and he said to the defendant, " You must not fall out if I get a better price; I shall try." Chase said, "Very well; will you put another on ? "
He (witness) then left, and shortly after returned to the shop, and heard Chase say to the same man,'' I booked the bet to him." 'the man said, "My name is White, and I will put another half-crown on ; but I should like you to give me a little more," Chase said, " I can't do it; it's no use of speaking a hundred words about it. Perhaps you will walk outside."
They walked to the street-door, and Chase asked for the money. White said it was inside, on the mantel-shelf. At one o'clock that day he went to Levi's house, in company with Superintendent O'Loughlin, and in a drawer in the shop he found a book, with about 100 bets entered. They were all bets on the Doncaster St. Leger, which takes place on Wednesday week.
The Times 29th September 1871.
There were three charges against the prisoner. In the first case he had obtained 3/. 12s. 6d. by inducing William Argent, a railway porter, in whose house, 45, Mansfield road, Kentish town, he lodged in June, to change a cheque for him.
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| Mansfield road |
The cheque was numbered 27' 125, and purported to be drawn on the Kilburn branch of the London and South-Western Bank, by "M'Kash and Co." It was proved that no such firm had any account at the bank.
In the second case, Mr. Charles Drewell, of the Lion and Lamb public house, Margaret street, Clerkenwell, stated that on the 26th of August he gave the prisoner 3L 15s. in change for a cheque, which was returned to him from the bank marked "No account."
In the third case, Louisa Murray, who stated that she had been living with the prisoner, said that on the 22nd of August he gave her a cheque for 3L. 10s., and instructed her to get it cashed. She went to Mr. Henley, a baker, who changed it for her. This cheque was also proved to be valueless.
F. Abberline, a detective, went to 21, Caledonian crescent, about 2 o'clock in the morning, and found the prisoner concealed in a cupboard. Witness saw him pass a pocketbook to a woman who was in bed, and on examining the book found that it contained two cheques on the London and County Bank, Covent garden. One of the cheques was filled up. The prisoner was committed for trial.
Islington Gazette 24th October 1871.
Clerkenwell
Unlicenced performance of stage plays at Winchester Hall Pentonville.
Mr Young, comedian, stated that on the evening in question he went with Inspector Odell, Y Division, to the Winchester Hall. When they entered the defendant was standing at the entrance, near a young man who was sitting at a desk on which were programmes setting out the entertainment.
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| Winchester Street in 1898 |
Witness presented his ticket to the defendant and asked if it was "all right", he replies "yes, but you must buy a programme for 2d." Witness took a programme and so did Inspector Odell the latter paying 4d for them. At the bottom of the programme was the following announcement; "admission free, by tickets, to be obtained on application at the hall nightly, or of any member of the company - J. Jones, Stage Manager." All persons will be expected to purchase a programme, price 2d."
Witness and the inspector went into the hall which was very dirty and large enough to contain about 600 to 700 people. About 400 people entered that evening, witness sat by the door and noticed the defendant was there the whole evening, as each person entered they were told they must purchase a programme and they were not admitted without doing so.
During the evening several went out and returned with cans of beer, most were smoking. The pieces performed were "The Day After The Wedding", "The Broken Heart" and "The Bell Ringer Who Had The Hump or The Mischievous Monk(ey) Of Notre Dame", a boy played "Home Sweet Home" on a tin whistle during the intervals.
Sergeant Abberline deposed that he accompanied the witness on the night in question and also stated that he went to the hall on the 3rd of July last, having been directed to do so by Inspector Odell. He found a dancing party there and saw the defendant and when he asked what there was to pay, a girl, who was in a kind of box with a pigeon hole, said 6d each for their admission and 2d each for their hats. There were then present about 150 boys and girls.
Mr Barker said there was no doubt money was taken for admission and the selling of the programmes was mere subterfuge, he should now order the defendant to pay £5 5s, but he wished him to understand that if he were again brought before him on such a charge he would inflict the full penalty of £10 for every day on which he offended.
The Standard 13th December 1871.
Marylebone
Robberies from the Midland Railway.
Henry Watson, 23, pointsman; William Walling, 22 guard: and Thomas Currey, 20, shunter, all in the service of the Midland Railway Company, were charged with stealing a chest of tea.
Owing to the numerous complaints made to Detective sergeant George Woodrow, of the company's police, of robberies having been committed on the railway, he placed Detective constables Underwood and Thurston to watch the goods trains at the Highgate road Junction, which is near the Kentish Town Station.
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| Highgate Junction approach |
About six o'clock they saw a goods train stop at the Highgate Junction, and the prisoner Walling was in charge of it. It was his duty to take the Liverpool truck from the train and place it on the main line for the purpose of its being taken to the terminus at St. Pancras, and from there to Liverpool. Directly the train stopped the prisoners Watson and Currey got into the break, and they left and went to the Liverpool truck. Shortly after the detectives saw the prisoner Watson carrying a chest of tea on his shoulders, and Currey was walking by his side.
The detectives rushed from their hiding place, and Thurston took hold of the prisoner Watson, who threw the box on to the metals. A struggle ensued, and the metals being slippery the detective slipped, and the prisoner ran down the line as fast as he could. Thurston followed, but finding a train was close on his heels he had to get on the siding and the prisoner consequently escaped.
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| Highgate Road Station. |
Underwood followed the prisoner Currey, who ran away and made his escape. The guard Walling went into his break, and it was impossible for him, if be had been attending to his duties, not to have seen the chest taken from the truck.
Information was given to Detective sergeant Frederick Abberline of the Y Division, who apprehended the prisoner Watson at his lodgings about one o'clock in the morning.
On searching the premises the following articles, which are all new, were found : Ten pairs of socks, eleven pairs of stockings, seven silk handkerchiefs, four new Scotch caps, six shirts, two pairs of flannel trousers, three dozen reels of cotton, five pairs of boots, four pairs of shoes, a quantity of black Italian silk, seven sheepskin mats, pair of trousers and vest, a silk scarf, 15 cigars, a roll of tobacco, a watchstand, corkscrew, two cigar cases, two brushes (hair and clothes) 12 pen holders, a box containing tea — between 701b and 100lb. — a sack containing a quantity of loaf sugar— between 161b and 18lb.— as well as other articles, which were supposed to have been taken from the trucks.
Detective sergeant Abberline also apprehended Walling at his lodgings, and when told the charge he said he knew nothing about it. The cord of the sheet that covered the truck that contained the chest that was stolen was found cut, and a piece of cord was found in the waistcoat pocket of the prisoner Walling, He said, in answer to a question, that he did not lose sight of the truck, and the other prisoner was afterwards taken into custody, and he denied the charge. Mr. D'Eyncourt remanded the prisoners till Monday next, for the railway company to bring further evidence against them.
The Daily Telegraph 3rd January 1872.
Middlesex Sessions. (Before the Assistant Judge.)
ROBBERY IN THE CITY.
Daniel Champion, 21, and George Williams, 20, were indicted for stealing 371bs of antimony, the property of Mr. Frederick Plummer, a stereotyper in the City, and master of the latter prisoner. Frederick Abberline, a detective of the Y division, said that on the 13th December he saw the two prisoners outside a public house. Williams was carrying a bundle, which he passed to Champion, and witness then followed them up a court. He asked Champion what he was carrying, and the latter said that he did not know, and that a Frenchman with a large beard had asked him to carry the bundle to Euston square for 1s.
Witness took both prisoners into custody, and 371bs of antimony were found upon them. The prisoners said that they had been taken to the wrong court, as the prosecutor's place was in the City. They ought to have been tried at the Mansion House, and it was a got-up thing by the police to get them convicted.
The jury found them guilty. Several previous convictions having been proved against both prisoners, and Mr. Plummer having stated that Williams had been in his service for about four years, and had been left a good deal in charge of his premises.
The Judge sentenced Williams to seven years' penal servitude, and Champion to two years' penal servitude, and to be under police supervision for three years.
Lloyds Illustrated Newspaper 7th January 1872.
ALLEGED EXTENSIVE ROBBERIES BY BARMAN.
Alfred Baston: 22, a barman, was charged, on remand, with stealing two marked half crowns, the property of his employer, Mr. John Copeman, of the Mother Red Cap, Camden town.
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| The Mother Red Cap, now The Worlds End,Camden. |
The prisoner had been in the Prosecutor's service for about 16 or 17 months, and during that time the prosecutor had lost from 35/. to 50/. Having reason to suspect the prisoner's honesty he communicated with Sergeant Abberline, Y division, and Kingdon, S division, and on the 24th ult, he marked two half crowns, placing them the next day on the shelf while the change was kept.
In the afternoon he missed the half crowns as well as two half sovereigns. He immediately communicated with the police, and, on the prisoner's box being searched, the half crowns were found concealed under some clothes.
The prisoner who was present, declared that it was a "plant," and intimated that the police had placed the coins in his box. From the evidence of the detectives it appeared that the prisoner had given a gold watch and chain to a lad named George Gobb and also to another boy. Both of the watches were in the hands of the police.
Mr. Wakeling, for the defence, contended that no case or at most only one of suspicion had been made out against the prisoner. Mr. Child remarked that the prisoner had lent one person 10/, and another 6/.
Mr. Wakeling replied that the prisoner had lately had some money left him with which he had assisted his friends. Mr. Cooke committed the prisoner for trial, refusing to accept bail.
In the afternoon he missed the half crowns as well as two half sovereigns. He immediately communicated with the police, and, on the prisoner's box being searched, the half crowns were found concealed under some clothes.
The prisoner who was present, declared that it was a "plant," and intimated that the police had placed the coins in his box. From the evidence of the detectives it appeared that the prisoner had given a gold watch and chain to a lad named George Gobb and also to another boy. Both of the watches were in the hands of the police.
Mr. Wakeling, for the defence, contended that no case or at most only one of suspicion had been made out against the prisoner. Mr. Child remarked that the prisoner had lent one person 10/, and another 6/.
Mr. Wakeling replied that the prisoner had lately had some money left him with which he had assisted his friends. Mr. Cooke committed the prisoner for trial, refusing to accept bail.
Islington Gazette 16th January 1872.
A dishonest shopman.
Frederick Cousins, aged 26, a cheesemongers assistant, residing at 10 Chapel Street Pentonville, was charged with stealing one threepenny piece and three penny pieces , the moneys of his employer Mr Patrick Sullivan, cheesemonger of 44 Chapel Street Somers Town.
According to the statement of the complainant it appeared that during the last eighteen months he had been robbed to the extent of nearly £150 by his servants. The prisoner had been in his service for only six weeks and feeling assured he was robbing him he placed himself in communication with divisional Detective Sergeant Abberline, Y Division and in consequence some money was marked.
On Wednesday ten pence, all marked, was paid to the prisoner and a short time afterwards the money received from him was examined and six pence of the marked money was missed. He was asked by Sergeant Abberline to show what money he had, he then produced some money but not that which was missed.
He was then searched and the missing money was found on him, on which he was taken into custody, the prisoner was in receipt of £1 1s per week. The Prisoner, who pleaded guilty, was sentenced to four months hard labour in the House of Correction.
Islington Gazette 23rd January 1872.
Suspected Persons.
Arthur Wells, aged 17 and Frederick Smith, aged 18, described as labourers of 12 Lyon Street, Caledonain Road, were charged with being suspected persons, loitering in Hungerford Road, supposed for the purpose of committing a felony.
From the evidence of divisional Detective Sergeant Abberline, it appeared that on Friday night he was in company with Detective Constable Dalton when he saw the prisoners loitering about. Suspecting their movements they watched and saw them attempt to steal articles from a grocers and other shops.
After they had been watching them for more than three quarters of an hour the prisoners caught sight of them and decamped, and were not apprehended until after a smart chase. The prisoners in defence said they were waiting about for a man and not with the intention of committing a felony, that being furthest from their thoughts.
Detective Witham said that both prisoners had been convicted of felony and were the companions of notorious thieves. Mr Barker sentenced both prisoners to three calendar months imprisonment with hard labour, one of the prisoners said "what, is that all! Can't you give us a little more".
Reynold's Newspaper 11th February 1872.
IMPORTANT DECISION AS TO PLAYING CARDS IN PUBLIC HOUSES.
On Monday, at the Edmonton Sessions before J. Abbiss Esq. and W. D. Alexander, Esq. Mr. John Gregory, at the Railway hotel, was charged, on a summons, with unlawfully suffering gaming in his house; by permitting several persons to play at cards.
Detective sergeant Abberline, Y division, stated that on the 27th of January, about nine o'clock in the evening, he visited the defendants house, and went into the parlour. Shortly afterwards three gentlemen entered.
At that time a pack of cards and a cribbage board were on the table. One of the gentlemen remarked, " We want another to make four," and when a fourth entered he was invited to join in a game. He consented, and they commenced playing at whist.
Before beginning, however, one said to another "What's it to be?" and the one spoken to replied, '"Oh, sixpence a game the same as before." Defendant was sitting in the parlour the greater part of the time the play was going on, and when three games had been completed one of the party said to another, "You owe me eighteen pence."
Witness then went outside for a constable, who witnessed all four gentlemen at play. In cross examination witness said he visited the house because complaints had been made to the police commissioners at Whitehall place. He did not see any money pass.
Undoubtedly the people who played were highly respectable men, but there could be no mistake that they were playing for money. There was no attempt at concealment. Everything occurred in the public parlour, which was open to all comers.
Defendant freely admitted that four gentlemen City merchants played at whist on the occasion referred to, and the game had been played in the same room for the last ten years by a few gentlemen who had lived in the neighbourhood.
Mr. Abbiss: The mere fact of playing cards in a tavern does not constitute an offence. Playing cards for simple pass time is perfectly legal. A gentleman was sworn, and said he was asked to make the fourth player, and he consented to do so, but he only played for fun. . . .
Mr. Abbiss Well, now, although no money passed, was it an understood thing amongst some of the players that they were playing for sixpence a game ?
Witness: I believe it was. I can't speak for any one but myself, and I know I did not receive or pay a single penny. In reply to the bench it was stated by the police and others that a better conducted house could not be found.
Mr. Abbiss said the bench had carefully considered the matter, and while they thought it right to intimate that card playing was quite legal in taverns if the game was indulged in simply for amusement, yet in the present case they could not doubt that, although money did not pass, there was an understanding, amongst some of the players at least, that money was being played for.
Still considering the high character given to the house, and the Class of men who were playing the nominal fine of 10s. only will he inflicted, and that was rather as a caution to others than as a punishment to defendant.
Lloyds Illustrated Newspaper 25th February 1872.
WHOLESALE ROBBERY FROM MESSERS MOSES AND SONS.
Isaac Harvey, 18, porter, and John Attwell, 21, baker, were charged, the former with stealing and the latter with receiving six vests and two pairs of trousers, the property of Isaac Moses and others, the well known tailors.
The prisoner Harvey was in their employ as a porter and he was in the constant habit of surreptitiously, by means of his apron, taking goods from his masters' establishment in Oxford street. These he put in the hands of the other prisoner, who pawned them at various establishments.
They were both found " Guilty." and Mr. Besley then stated that, after the detection of Harvey, who, it was supposed, had been led astray by the inducement of the other prisoner, a deficiency in the stock was discovered, amounting to between 120/. and 130/.
The whole of the property, there was reason to believe, had been pledged, and as the tickets had been destroyed, it was only through the persevering inquiries of Sergeant Abberline and Detective Dalton that any part of it had been recovered.
Altogether about 26/. worth of property had been so recovered, which comprised 43 waistcoats and three pairs of trowsers, and were pledged at 21 different pawnbrokers. Attwell was sentenced to 18 months', and Harvey to 12 months' hard labour.
Islington Gazette 21st June 1872.
Eliza Easterbrook, aged 41, a domestic servant residing at Mellick's Place, Bermondsey was charged before Mr Cooke with stealing from 261 Camden Road, 14 silver spoons, 18 silver dessert spoons, 24 tea spoons and a number of other articles of plate to the value of £60, the property of Mrs Ellen Edwards, her mistress.
The facts show this was a very heartless robbery, the prisoner had been in the employ of the prosecutrix for about eight years, and great confidence was reposed in her. On the 6th inst., two days after the burial of her deceased employer, Mr Booth, auctioneer, of the Camden Road, was called in to value the property for the purpose of probate.
He was handed a list of the plate and when he asked to look at it the prisoner told him she had lost the key, but that the plate chest had better not be broken open as she thought she might have dropped it at her aunts and could fetch it in the course of an hour. She left for the purpose of fetching the key, but did not return again.
Nothing more was heard of her until last night when Detective Sergeant Abberline met her in the street at Bermondsey. He told her the charge and she positively denied that she knew anything about a robbery, but on the way to Kentish Town Police Station she said that it was all through a man she had met in the street, but who's name and address she did not know.
This morning on the way to the Police Station the prisoner told Abberline where the plate was pawned and he had no doubt that if time was given he could recover the plate. Mr Cooke remanded the prisoner for a week.
Islington Gazette 12th July 1872.
Extensive robbery by a domestic servant.
Susan Jones, a cook, in the employ of Mr Charles West, a stockbroker of 257 Camden Road, was charged with stealing a bottle of champagne, some sherry and other articles, the property of her employer.
The prisoner had been in the employ of the complainant for about three years and for the past twelve months he had been aware that someone had been robbing him, his suspicions had rested on a servant who has left. From what came to his knowledge a few days since, he was induced to place the matter into the hands of Detective Sergeant Abberline, who kept watch on the house.
On Monday night he saw the prisoner leaving the house and when she had got a few yards away he stopped her and asked what she had got about her. At first she hesitated and then said "only a little dripping", not being satisfied with her answer Abberline took her back to the house and then found she had stolen a bottle of champagne, a bottle of sherry, some raw rump steak, dripping and other articles.
The other servant in the house proved that the prisoner had been committing these depredations for some time past and gave for a reason for not saying anything that, when she remonstrated with her, she said that if anything was found out about it she would kill her then commit suicide.
Mr Barker said there could be no doubt that this was not her first offence and sentenced her to three months hard labour in the House of Correction.
Bucks Herald 13th July 1872.
Discovery of Two Dead Bodies.
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| Torraino Avenue, Kentish Town. |
On Monday some excitement was occasioned at Kentish town by the announcement that a working man of the name of Bond had discovered, in an empty house, 77, Torraino avenue, two coffins, each containing the body of an infant in a far advanced state of putrefaction. He communicated with the police, and the matter having been placed in the hands of Detective Sergeant Abberline, Y Division, he ascertained that the house had formerly been in the occupation of an undertaker.
Elizabeth Sullivan, 18, Maria Sullivan, 15, and Jane Adams, 13, were charged before Mr. Mansfield with disorderly conduct.
The defendants were dressed in sailor costume, and their clothes seemed to fit them nicely. The elder defendant wore a large straw hat, while her sister had a cap with the name of H.M.S Implacable on it.
Sergeant Abberline stated that about one 'clock in the morning he was with a constable in the Kentish town road, when he saw the defendants turned out of the Assembly Rooms Tavern. As they made a disturbance he took them into custody.
Daily News 8th August 1872.
MARYLEBONE.
Elizabeth Sullivan, 18, Maria Sullivan, 15, and Jane Adams, 13, were charged before Mr. Mansfield with disorderly conduct.
The defendants were dressed in sailor costume, and their clothes seemed to fit them nicely. The elder defendant wore a large straw hat, while her sister had a cap with the name of H.M.S Implacable on it.
Sergeant Abberline stated that about one 'clock in the morning he was with a constable in the Kentish town road, when he saw the defendants turned out of the Assembly Rooms Tavern. As they made a disturbance he took them into custody.
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| Assembly Rooms Tavern c1853 |
In answer to the magistrate.
The defendants said they were very sorry and if allowed to go home they would not offend gain. Mr Mansfield - Who dressed you?
Elizabeth Sullivan - We dressed ourselves, sir, my two brothers are sailors, and we took their clothes for fun.
Sergeant Abberline said he had made in inquiries and found they had given their correct addresses, and nothing was known against them. The mother of the Sullivans said they only put the clothing on for a joke, but did not intend to do any harm.
Mr Mansfield said it was exceedingly improper, and the defendants might be sent to gaol for some months. If it was repeated, they would be severely dealt with, but on this occasion they would be discharged.
Walter James Cochrane, aged 15, an errand boy, living at Jeffrey street, Kentish town, was charged on remand before Mr. D'Eyncourt with cutting and wounding Alfred Carter, agesd 14, with intent to do him grievous bodily harm.
From the evidence adduced it appeared that the complainant, who resides with his parents at 66, Prince of Wales road Kentish town, was walking with his brother along the Kentish town road on the afternoon of Sunday week.
The complainant was wearing a high hat for the first time and the defendant, with some other boys, was standing outside a shop eating apples. As the complainant passed the defendant called out, "Go home and take off your father's hat" but the complainant took no notice of it, and the defendant threw a piece of apple at the hat, but it struck the brother.
The defendant and his companions followed them, and the complainant then became excited and struck the defendant in the face, who then rushed at the complainant with a knife and stabbed him above the knee.
He bled profusely from the wound and was taken to the surgery of Mr Andrew Brown of 1, Bartholomew road, Kentish town road, who found the complainant was suffering from a wound two inches in length a few inches above the knee-cap.
If the wound had been a quarter of an inch lower down it would have been serious, for the doctor stated that the complainant might have had to have his leg taken off.
The defendant was taken into custody by Detective sergeant Frederick Abberline of the Y division, and when told the charge he gave the sergeant a pocket knife, which he said he had stabbed the complainant with.
The defendant, after receiving the usual caution, said he had nothing to say in answer to the charge Mr. D'Eyncourt committed the prisoner to the next Middlesex Sessions for trial, but he was allowed to go out on his father's recognisances.
The defendants said they were very sorry and if allowed to go home they would not offend gain. Mr Mansfield - Who dressed you?
Elizabeth Sullivan - We dressed ourselves, sir, my two brothers are sailors, and we took their clothes for fun.
Sergeant Abberline said he had made in inquiries and found they had given their correct addresses, and nothing was known against them. The mother of the Sullivans said they only put the clothing on for a joke, but did not intend to do any harm.
Mr Mansfield said it was exceedingly improper, and the defendants might be sent to gaol for some months. If it was repeated, they would be severely dealt with, but on this occasion they would be discharged.
Morning Post 9th October 1872.
MARYLEBONE.
Walter James Cochrane, aged 15, an errand boy, living at Jeffrey street, Kentish town, was charged on remand before Mr. D'Eyncourt with cutting and wounding Alfred Carter, agesd 14, with intent to do him grievous bodily harm.
From the evidence adduced it appeared that the complainant, who resides with his parents at 66, Prince of Wales road Kentish town, was walking with his brother along the Kentish town road on the afternoon of Sunday week.
The complainant was wearing a high hat for the first time and the defendant, with some other boys, was standing outside a shop eating apples. As the complainant passed the defendant called out, "Go home and take off your father's hat" but the complainant took no notice of it, and the defendant threw a piece of apple at the hat, but it struck the brother.
The defendant and his companions followed them, and the complainant then became excited and struck the defendant in the face, who then rushed at the complainant with a knife and stabbed him above the knee.
He bled profusely from the wound and was taken to the surgery of Mr Andrew Brown of 1, Bartholomew road, Kentish town road, who found the complainant was suffering from a wound two inches in length a few inches above the knee-cap.
If the wound had been a quarter of an inch lower down it would have been serious, for the doctor stated that the complainant might have had to have his leg taken off.
The defendant was taken into custody by Detective sergeant Frederick Abberline of the Y division, and when told the charge he gave the sergeant a pocket knife, which he said he had stabbed the complainant with.
The defendant, after receiving the usual caution, said he had nothing to say in answer to the charge Mr. D'Eyncourt committed the prisoner to the next Middlesex Sessions for trial, but he was allowed to go out on his father's recognisances.
Islington Gazette 1st November 1872.
Clerkenwell
The Happy Family.
Elizabeth Willis, aged 14, described as a hawker of 27, Fortress Mews, Kentish Town was charged with obtaining 1s from Mr James Aspin Heaton by means of false pretences at 152, Brecknock Road on the 27th inst.
From the evidence it appeared that last week the defendant called at the complainant's house representing that her mother, who had a family of eight children, was dangerously ill and asked for assistance.
She was given money and some clothes and next day she came for a second time, but was not relieved. On Sunday last the defendant called again and said her mother was dead and that her father was ill and had been left with eight children to support.
In answer to questions from the complainant she gave her address at Highgate New Town and further said her mother has been attended by Dr Vaughan and having received one shilling, she left. The complainant and his brother went to make inquiries and finding all that had been stated was false information was given to the police and the matter was placed into the hands of Detective Sergeant Abberline, of the Y Division, who apprehended the defendant.
From inquiries he had made he ascertained that the defendant belonged to what was known as "the Happy Family", who were in the habit of hawking a few watercresses for sale and thus obtaining introductions to houses, to the heads of which they stated that their parents were ill and in the direst state of distress. By that means they obtained large sums of money.
The defendant, who pretended to cry, said she had no defence to make. Mr Flowers said this was a very bad case and sentenced the defendant to be imprisoned in the House of Correction for one calendar month.
Reynold's Newspaper 1st December 1872.
Marylebone.
WHOLESALE PAWNING OF PETTICOATS THROUGH DISTRESS.
Joseph Burrell, aged 40, a respectably dressed man, described on the charge sheet as a commission agent, living at 9, St. Anne's gardens, Haverstock hill, was places in the dock, charged before Mr. Mansfield with illegally pawning seventy three petticoats, value £2, the goods of messrs Stephen Evans, and Co warehousemen, 14, Old Change, City.
From the evidence of Mr. Alexander Gibbons, manager to the above firm, it appears that for sometime past the prisoner's wife has been engaged on the firm, and as she had a family, she asked the firm to allow her to do her work at home.
As she was an industrious woman, this request was granted, and about a month ago seventy three petticoats were given to her to make up. He applied several times for them, but as he could not get them his suspicions were aroused, and he proceeded on Thursday evening to the defendant's house, where he saw the wife.
He asked her for the petticoats and she then said she was very sorry, but she had pawned them at different pawnbrokers in the neighbourhood.
Mr. Gibbbons then gave information to the police, and the case was placed in the hands of detective sergeant Abberline of the Y division.
On making inquiries at the pawnbrokers, he found that a pawnbroker had taken in no less than three dozen and nine of the petticoats, although they were all marked with the name and address of the firm. The prisoner, in answer to the charge, said he pawned the goods because his children were starving. He was very sorry for doing it, but he was driven to it.
Mr. Mansfield ordered the defendant to pay a fine of £5, and £7 7s, the amount the goods were pledged for, or, in default of payment, to be imprisoned and kept to hard labour in the House of Correction for two calendar months.
Mr. Gibbons asked the magistrate to grant summonses against the pawnbrokers for taking in pledge stolen articles; the pawnbrokers, if they had liked to have looked at the petticoats, could see the name of the firm upon it.
Mr. Mansfield said he thought it sufficient punishment and reprimand to the pawnbrokers to order them to give up the whole of the goods without payment.
The Standard 9th January 1873.
MIDDLESEX SESSIONS, Jan. 8 (Before Sir W. H. Bodkin, Assistant Judge.)
INGENIOUS FRAUDS BY A PRETENDED BARMAN.
Henry Wilson, 24, describing himself as a clerk, but very unlike one in appearance indicted for obtaining by false pretences from Job Johnson, five shirts, value 1/. 16s, property of the said Job Johnson, with intent to defraud.
There were two other indictments of a similar description against him. The mode of operation was the same in the respective charge preferred against the prisoner, and were carried out with great success.
The prisoner put on a small white apron, such as is commonly worn by barmen at public houses, and having divested himself of his coat, in a hurried manner entered a linendraper's or hosier's shop, and stated that the landlord or landlady of some neighbouring public house required some good shirts for a sudden occasion. Believing the statement to he true, and the deception being favoured by the appearance of the prisoner, in several instances the shirts were handed over to him without hesitation; but he had no sooner obtained possession of them than he walked off to the nearest pawnbrokers and converted them into money.
The shopkeepers embraced in the three indictments (selected from several others) were Mary Ann Crane, of 369, Kentish Town road; Job Johnson, 73, Chalk Farm road; and Job Windle, 440, Edgware road.
The licensed victualler's he represented as having sent him for the shirts were Henry Riche, of the Tally-ho public house, Cleveland street; Frederick Willis, The Monarch, Chalk Farm road and Joseph Richardson, Portman Arms, Maryland road. Harrow road.
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| The Monarch,, Chalk Farm Road now the Barfly. |
The frauds being at last discovered the matter was put into the hands of Frederick Abberline, a detective Sergeant of the Y division, and he on Thursday, the 6th of December, happening to meet the prisoner in Clerkenwell, told him that he should take him into custody on a charge of stealing shirts of several tradesmen by representing if as a potman.
On the way to the station house in Kentish Town the prisoner said, "You must be a 'mug' to take me to Kentish Town, stop the cab and I'll show you the man." Abberline told him he would have to go to the station, and he took him there, where he was identified by Mr. Johnson and other persons from whom he had obtained the shirts.
After he was charged he wanted to speak to Abberline, and then he said, "It is no use disputing this. I should like the magistrate to settle it tomorrow. I'll tell you where the shirts are that I had on Monday from over the way. They are pledged at All worthy's, in King's cross road, in the name of Lucas."
The jury found the prisoner guilty.
Herbert Reeves, warder at Coldbath fields Prison, proved a former conviction of 18 months on the 24th of August 1870, at the sessions of that court for a similar offence; and two months, on the 30th of September, 1871, for a like offence.
The Judge sentenced him to be kept in penal servitude for seven years. The grand jury made the following presentment in reference to this case :— " The grand jury desire to record their approval of the conduct and ability of Sergeant Abberline, evinced in the capture of Henry Wilson, accused of obtaining shirts under fake pretences. " Geo. MUNDY, Foreman."
After this case Abberline was promoted to inspector and transferred to H Division, Whitechapel. His 14 years there were just as fraught and interesting, but that story is for another day.......
On the way to the station house in Kentish Town the prisoner said, "You must be a 'mug' to take me to Kentish Town, stop the cab and I'll show you the man." Abberline told him he would have to go to the station, and he took him there, where he was identified by Mr. Johnson and other persons from whom he had obtained the shirts.
After he was charged he wanted to speak to Abberline, and then he said, "It is no use disputing this. I should like the magistrate to settle it tomorrow. I'll tell you where the shirts are that I had on Monday from over the way. They are pledged at All worthy's, in King's cross road, in the name of Lucas."
The jury found the prisoner guilty.
Herbert Reeves, warder at Coldbath fields Prison, proved a former conviction of 18 months on the 24th of August 1870, at the sessions of that court for a similar offence; and two months, on the 30th of September, 1871, for a like offence.
The Judge sentenced him to be kept in penal servitude for seven years. The grand jury made the following presentment in reference to this case :— " The grand jury desire to record their approval of the conduct and ability of Sergeant Abberline, evinced in the capture of Henry Wilson, accused of obtaining shirts under fake pretences. " Geo. MUNDY, Foreman."
After this case Abberline was promoted to inspector and transferred to H Division, Whitechapel. His 14 years there were just as fraught and interesting, but that story is for another day.......
