X Chester Chronicle - Friday 5 February 1830 Drunken Watchman.—John M'Gee, a
faithless guardian of the night, was charged with being intoxicated in his
watch-box, on Sunday night last. Two of M’Gee's brethren of the lantern and
rattle, proved that he was "helpless drunk;" and the Court convicted him in the
penalty of 5s and costs. He was also informed that would be discharged at the
next meeting of the Commissioners of Police.
Chester Chronicle - Friday 4 June 1830 CHESTER POLICE. SATURDAY, May 29.—Before
the Mayor and Alderman Francis. Female Depravity—Ann Walters, a notorious
street-walker, was charged by John Roberts, Ward Constable, with being
intoxicated and breaking the peace on Thursday.—The Constable stated that she
was so beastly drunk that she was unable to walk. He was therefore obliged to
get a truck and place her upon it; and with the assistance of several boys he
dragged her to the gaol.—Governor Jepson informed the Magistrates that
imprisonment had little or no beneficial effect upon Walters, for that during
the three years, she had been confined in the House of Correction for two
hundred and thirty-five days, the greater part of this period in a solitary
cell. The Magistrates said they were at a loss what do with this degraded
creature. She was finally ordered to be confined in a solitary cell for fourteen
days.
Chester Chronicle – Friday 16 July 1830 CHESTER POLICE. MONDAY, July 12.—Before
Aldermen Morris and Francis. A Cunning Woman.—Biddy Connor, an ill-favoured hag
from the Emerald Isle, was charged "rulinq the planet," as she termed it, of one
Margaret Roberts, in Newgate-street, yesterday, and with having obtained sundry
copper coins of this realm for the same, contrary to the statute, in that case
made and provided. Roberts, although very anxious for peep into futurity,
especially to know if she was to be married, and when, had, at first, some
misgivings about the day. The sybil, however, quieted her scruples, reminding
her that "the better day the better the deed and assuring her that she could
more easily "rule the planet" on Sunday than any other day. These scruples
overcome, the next thing was to "cross" the sybil's hand with "a bit of silver;"
for therein mainly consisted the charm which she would be enabled to see clearly
into the womb of time: but the poor simple girl not being possessed of a single
piece of silver, prevailed, after much entreaty, upon the sybil to “rule her
planet, if it was only little time" for four-pence-halfpenny—all she was worth
in the world. Whether it was that she was dissatisfied with the fate in store
for her, as declared by the sybil, aid therefore information to the Police, did
not appear; but some how or other, Mr. Dawson got scent of the transaction, and
lodged Biddy in governor Jepson's stone jug for the night. In reply to a
question from the Bench, Biddy admitted that she had neglected to “rule her own
planet," and therefore did not know what was about befall her, nor the measure
punishment which the Magistrates were now disposed "rule," she should undergo.
In order to enlighten her on this point, the Bench sentenced her to be
imprisoned to 28 days, and be kept to hard labour.
Chester Chronicle - Friday 30 July 1830 Wednesday – Before the Mayor, Aldermen
Francis and Rogers, Assault.— William Rogers, was charged with violently
assaulting Jones and Abrahams, two watchmen, in Bridge-street, at one o'clock
Sunday morning. Rogers and Edward Davies (who did not appear) were fighting; and
on the watchman interfering, they commenced action upon them, and it was not
until a severe combat had taken place, that the watchmen succeeded in conquering
them.— Rogers was convicted in the penalty 7s. and 3s. costs.
Assaulting a Watchman.—Joseph Boulton, batcher, was charged with assaulting John
Hartley, watchman, whilst in the execution of his complainant stated that was
quarrelling with a female of notoriety about twelve o'clock on Tuesday
night.—The lady screamed aloud, and Hartley remonstated with him on the
impropriety of his conduct, and finally insisted upon his going home; upon which
be struck the watchman several times. Boulton :- " Come, I've got a shilling
left; I’ll spend it upon you for your oath, old boy." Tee magistrates convicted
Boulton in the penalty of £2 and costs for the assault, which he paid in Court.
Boulton upon hearing the decision of the Court, addressing Hartley, said, "I'll
spend another pound for rush-lights to watch whether you do your duty every
night. The Court remarked that he richly deserved to he convicted the full
penalty £5 for his insolence.
Chester Chronicle – Friday 20 August 1830 WEDNESDAY.—Before the Mayor, Aldermen
Francis and Rogers. George Walker, a ward constable, appeared to summons
charging him with neglecting to attend his duty on Sunday last. Mr. Dawson,
superintendent of police, informed the bench, that Walker had never attended the
police-office to the rounds since he was appointed in December last.—Walker
excused his conduct, by saying that he was quite ignorant of the duties of his
office.—Mr. Dawson denied this statement, and said that Walker had been
frequently warned to attend. —The court reminded Walker that was liable to
indicted for neglecting his duty; and after a suitable reprimand, he was
discharged.
Chester Chronicle – Friday 10 September 1830 CHESTER POLICE. Monday, Sept.
6.—Before Alderman Morris. Juvenile Thief.— William Dickens, was charged with
stealing a market basket etc belonging to Mrs. Dale, on Saturday week. Mrs.
Dale, occupies a standing in the butcher's shambles, and in the evening she put
some money, tea, coffee, and a "ready reckoner" in the basket, and hung it on a
hook; and in a few minutes afterwards, she missed it.—Dickens was also charged
with stealing several articles of wearing apparel, belonging to Mr. Gough,
baker, in Crane-street. Mrs. Gough stated, that she placed the clothes lines in
a room over the bake-house, dry, on the evening of Wednesday, the 25th of
August, and the following morning, she discovered that they had been stolen. The
discovery of the persons concerned in this robbery, occurred rather in a
singular manner. Mr. Dawson went to look for Dickens, on another charge, and
while in his mother's house, found the identical "ready reckoner," lost by Mrs
Dale, and also an apron which was owned by Mrs. Gough. Messrs. Dawson and Hill
had been, in quest of Dickens for some days, and at last found him in a garret,
in Joe Dod's house, in Boughton.—Drabble, a watchman, said he saw Dickens,
Thomas Broomhall, and Thss. Abrahams, (the individuals committed for robbing Mr.
Phillips, last week) about two o'clock, on the morning the robbery was committed
at Mr. Gough's, trying the shutters of a shop in Foregate-street; and Leake
another watchman, said he saw them coming up Paradise row, about half past one
the same morning. Dickens was committed for trial. It is believed that the gang
to which Dickens belongs has committed numerous robberies in this city, during
the last fortnight, besides attempting break into several houses and shops.—New
black morocco pocket books were found on the persons of Dickens, Abrahams, and
Broomhall.
Chester Chronicle - Friday 1 October 1830 CHESTER POLICE. SATURDAY, September.
Before the Mayor, Aldermen Newell, and Francis. Storming and Capture.—A robbery
was committed by two of the inmates of that hot-bed of vice, Suderick, in I.inen
Hall-street, at noon, on Tuesday last, and the police having also notified to
the Mayor, that every individual who visited the place during the last few
months, had been robbed, a warrant was issued Wednesday to apprehend the
inmates. Accordingly, on Thursday night, Messrs. Dawson and Hill, and
assistants, visited the fortress, and after cautiously reconnoitring it for
about half an hour, Generals Dawson and Hill agreed upon the mode of attack. It
was at first intended to enter the fortress by means of scaling ladders but this
plan being abandoned, proceeded, baton in hand, to the assault. On forcing their
way through the main entrance, they mounted the various chambers, and after a
short skirmish, the white flag was hung out, and the beautiful Queen Suderick.
Mistress Margaret Moors, seven of her damsels, and two bullies, surrendered at
discretion, the Queen giving up the keys of the citadel to General Dawson. The
prisoners were then marched off with all the "honours of war," and lodged in the
custody of Governor Jepson. They were brought before the Court this morning, and
the female warriors were each committed to prison for fourteen days. The men
were liberated on promising to leave the city.
Chester Chronicle - Friday 29 October 1830 CHESTER POLICE. SATURDAY, October 23
- A Watchman Floored.— Mr. Hill, superintendent of the watch, reported to the
magistrates that William Davies, one of the guardians of the night, was
completely intoxicated whilst on duty last night, that was "floored" by the
spirited champion, Sir John Barleycorn. The court ordered Davies to be
immediately suspended.
Chester Chronicle – Friday 31 December 1830 CHESTER POLICE. TUESDAY, Dec.
28.—Before the Mayor, Aldermen Rogers and Morris.. A Refractory Caleb Quotem.
—Frith, watchman, introduced before the bench a fiery-nosed gentleman, whom he
said he took into custody at 12 o'clock last night, for a breach of the peace.
Town Clerk: "What is his name; and what offence did he commit?" Watchman: "Why,
Sir, his name is John Phillips and he says that how he's the parish clerk at
Backford. I found him drunk and making a disturbance in Northgate-street, and I
took him into a lodging-house, and tried to put him to bed, but he kicked such a
dust in the house, that they bundled him into the street;' and he wouldn’t be
easy there, and I took and locked him up in the warehouse.'' Town Clerk :
(addressing Phillips) "This a disgraceful business; are you really the clerk of
Backford?" Phillips: (stroking his mug) "Yes, please you Sir.' and I live close
to the church; I am very sorry this affair has happened; but you see I got a
little drop too much last night." The Mayor: You ought to be ashamed of
yourself; I will take care that you are punished as you deserve. Phillips: "Oh!
forgive me this time, gentlemen." Town Clerk: —"You will present a pretty
spectacle in the stocks for six hours." Phillips: —" Bless you Mr. Mayor,
don’t—Oh! don’t put me in the stocks; I'll never do so again—I’d rather pay any
thing than go in the stocks." The Bench convicted "Amen," in the penalty of 5s
and costs, which he paid instanter; and after saluting the bench with a polite
bow and scrape, he hastened out of Court.
Chester Courant – Tuesday 25 January 1831 CHESTER POLICE. WEDNESDAY. Wrather
Emerson, retailer of beer, was fined forty shillings, on the information of
James Brown, watchman, for having had company drinking in his house at a quarter
past eleven o'clock on Tuesday night, contrary to the act. Also - Ann Walters,
of notoriety, was brought before the Mayor, charged by Brown, a watchman, with
having been found in Mr. Bretherton's stables on the previous night. Ann
promised to set off for her native place, Gresford, if the magistrates would set
her at liberty until Saturday, and she was allowed to depart.
Chester Chronicle - Friday 28 January 1831 CHESTER POLICE. MONDAY, Jan.
24.—Before the Mayor, and Ald. Morris. Effects of Drunkenness—Sarah Carter, an
elderly female, was charged with being intoxicated on Saturday—Speakman
(watchman) informed the Court that Carter went in Mr. Axe's liquor vaults about
three o'clock , in the afternoon, in a state of beastly intoxication, and called
for some gin ; and on Mr. Axe refusing to serve her, she made use of a good deal
of insulting language ; and finally became so completely stupified, [sic] that
she dropped down on the floor, and he was obliged fetch a hand-cart, in which he
placed her, and wheeled her off to the House of Correction The old dame pleaded
hard for forgiveness ; and said she had come over from Liverpool to receive a
little money—she did not make a regular practice of tippling ; but more the
pity, she was overcome that day, by two glasses, and they indeed were very weak
! The Town-Clerk asked who had acted coachman and guard, on the occasion of
taking her to gaol ? He thought she ought, at least, to pay something for her
ride. Speakman replied, that he was coachman, and Haswell [watchman] was guard.
The Mayor- I do not think that she will pay too much for her fare, if she gives
the officers two shillings each. Mrs. Carter put her hand into her pocket, paid
the four shillings ; and after receiving a sound admonition, to her future
conduct, from the Court, she hastily took her departure.
Chester Chronicle - Friday 4 February 1831 CHESTER POLICE. MONDAY, Jan. 31.—
Before the Mayor, Aldermen Larden, Francis, and Morris. Assault.— Joseph Hand,
was charged with assaulting Samuel Silvey, a constable, on Saturday night. The
case was one of a flagrant nature; but Silvey forgave him, on his promising not
to molest him in future.
Wednesday.- Before the Mayor, Ald Larden, Williamson, and Morris. False
Imprisonment. A Corporal belonging to the 53rd regiment, charged Thomas Bentley,
landlord of the Rising Sun, Newgate-street, with placing him in the custody of a
constable, on Saturday night, and ordering the officer to convey him to the
House of Correction.—Bentley, in exculpation of his conduct, told a long story
about the Corporal being quartered at his house, —and complaining that his bed
was too short —that, on the night in question, he would stand before the fire,
and behaved impertinently him.—Bentley also affirmed that he did not order the
Corporal into custody; and declared he was out of his house at the time he was
taken to gaol.—A witness was brought forward by Bentley to establish his
statement.—-In contradiction to this statement the Corporal affirmed that
Bentley abused him as soon he entered the house; refused to let him warm himself
at the fire and tried to turn him out of the house; and finally ordered a
constable to take him to prison. George Keene, (a pensioner, recently appointed
a special constable) said he was in Bentley's house at the time alluded to by
the Corporal; and he confirmed the whole of his testimony. Keene also affirmed,
that Bentley several times insisted upon his taking the corporal to gaol; and
that he told him if he did not do so, he would report him to the magistrates. He
likewise said, that Bentley could not be mistaken about taking the soldier to
prison, for that, he Bentley) followed them to the gaol door. Mr. Jepson
(Governor of the City Gaol) said the corporal was perfectly sober when delivered
into his custody. The Court was clearly of opinion that Bentley had not
sufficient grounds to send the corporal to prison. Major Hill observed that the
corporal had long borne an excellent character; that he would stand by his
friend, and would immediately bring an action for false imprisonment against
Bentley.
Chester Chronicle - Friday 11 February 1831
CHESTER POLICE COURT- TUESDAY—Before Ald. Lardon and Francis. A Drunken Pauper
—Phoebe Edwards, an old lass bordering upon three-score-years and ten, was
charged with being intoxicated in the streets yesterday. Goff, a ward constable,
said he found Phoebe lying across a channe, impeding the free course of the
water; and after a good deal of trouble, he succeeded in placing the old woman
(who was so muzzy that she appeared nearly lifeless) on a truck, and wheeling
her off to the City Warehouse. The old dame craved hard for forgiveness, and
said by way of palliating her conduct, “I am run away from the workhouse on
Sunday, gentlemen, and did not go back; and on Monday I had only our glass of
rum given me." Phoebe vowed that if the Mayor liberated her, she “would not
again taste a drop, even should any person offer to her."—She was discharged, on
promising to present herself before the overseer the parish to which she
belonged, to be by him conveyed to her old quarters.
Chester Chronicle - Friday 18 February 1831
Outrageous Conduct.— William Candeland, John Pixton, Thomas Ledsham, and James
Dumphey, were charged with assaulting (in company with upwards twenty other
individuals) several watchmen, at two o'clock on Sunday morning. Candeland,
Pixton and Ledsham were identified as having knocked down three of the watchmen;
one of whom, Thomas Tilston, was severely injured. The watchmen at the onset
were so beset and abused by a crowd of blackguards, that they were obliged to
spring their rattles, on which, a number of other watchmen came to their
assistance, and they succeeded in capturing these fellows. While taking their
prisoners to gaol they were frequently assaulted, and several paving-stones and
brick-bats were thrown at them, some of which took effect. Dumphey was actively
engaged in these disgraceful proceedings; and when taken into custody he had a
stone in his hand, and more in his pockets. The Mayor expressed his
determination to punish these offenders with the utmost rigour; and they were
accordingly bound over in sureties answer a bill indictment at the Sessions.
Chester Chronicle – Friday 29 April 1831
CHESTER POLICE. WEDNESDAY.—Before the Mayor, Aldermen Larden, Francis and
Morris. Capture of Two Cracksmen—Two men of very respectable exterior, calling
themselves John Johnson, and John Swin, the former about 30 years of age, the
latter about 20, were brought the Court this morning.—Mr. Hill, informed the
Bench, that last night, about 11 o'clock, he perceived these individuals
loitering about Messrs. Dixons and Wardell's Bank, and suspecting that they were
“regular men," he watched their motions, In a little time after, he saw them
separate—one went towards the Cross, the other remained near the Bank.—Mr. Hill
went to this "professor," and took him into custody.—He then delivered him into
the safe keeping of Mr. Dawson, who was on the alert, near the spot, and Mr.
Hill returned to watch the other fellow, who, in a little time, he saw coming up
the street, on which he also secured him.— On searching Johnson, forty-one
pick-lock and skeleton keys, in two bags, were found on his person, a firebox
and a ball of wax with which to take impression’s of keys.—On Swain was found a
double skeleton key, two files, a dark lantern, a peculiar make, with small
reflecting glass in the side, for the purpose of throwing light into a key-hole!
—Johnson, on being interrogated, said he was a jeweller, and resided at No. 2,
Thomas's street, Birmingham; Swain said he was a moulder, and that had lived
during the last 18 months at No. 8, Albion-street, Liverpool, but his friends
resided in Manchester.—As it appeared evident the Bench that some particulars
the "travels and exploits" of these gentlemen would speedily be obtained, they
were committed, under the vagrant act, to the House Correction for three
months.—[Two much praise cannot be bestowed on Mr. Hill for his acuteness and
activity in this affair; and indeed, in justice to Messrs. Dawson and Hill, we
must say, that through their zealous efforts, few thieves, that have visited
Chester during the last five years, though in that time some of the most expert
characters have been in the city, have escaped their eye or grasp.—There is no
doubt that these fellows came to do a little business at the races, and they had
the effrontery admit to the gaolor (sic) since they have been in custody, that
if they had been spared half hour longer they would have been in the bank.]
Chester Chronicle – Friday 24 June 1831
CHESTER POLICE. SATURDAY, June 18.—Before Aldermen Francis and Morris. A Gallows
Youth.—Sam Hart, a lad notorious "prigging" fame, was brought up warrant, a
charge assaulting Sammy Burrows, Finisher the Law for this city.—lt appeared
from the testimony of Burrows, that Hart (whom he had flogged twice in the city
gaol) on Tuesday evening threw several paving-stones at him, two of which hit
him, and injured him materially.— Burrows informed the Bench that Hart said to
him, " Oh, you old rogue of a hangman I'll finish you yet." Hart, in reply to
this stated, that Burrows met him lately, and saluted him with “Well Sam thou'rt
almost ripe enough—l've got a rope at home laid by on purpose to hang thee, and
thou shalt have plenty of chuck."—Burrows, though he acknowledged that he had
shook the rope at Hart, denied that he had made use such indecent language; but
said he, “I'll tell you, gentlemen, its the flogging that touched him up —he
cannot forget it—yet he ought to know, if had any sense, that it was not me, but
it was the law that whipped him."—Hart was ordered to find sureties for the
assault; and in default of doing so, was committed his old quarters in the House
of Correction'.
Chester Chronicle - Friday 17 June 1831
CHESTER POLICE: WEDNESDAY.—Before the Mayor, and Aid. Morris. Assaulting a
Constable.—Thomas Woodworth, was charged with assaulting Francis Leake, a Ward
Constable, while in the execution of his duty.—The complainant stated that
Woodworth, who had taken too much of the juice Sir John Barleycorn, was "
kicking dust," and he was fetched by a neighbour to preserve the peace.—On his
going to Woodworth's house, and intreating [sic] him to behave peaceably, the
latter pulled off his coat, and attempted to strike him; and afterwards came to
his (the constable's) house accompanied by several blackguards, and challenged
him to fight—The Mayor said he would take care that the constables should be
protected in the execution of their duty; and he ordered Woodworth to find
sureties to keep the peace.
Chester Chronicle - Friday 8 July 1831
CHESTER POLICE. SATURDAY, July 2.—Before the Mayor, Aldermen Francis, and
Morris. Plucking a Gander.—Elizabeth Jenkins, and Ann Tagg, were charged with
stealing £10 from the person of Thos Taylor.—lt appeared from the testimony of
Mr. Hill, conductor the watch, that the old gentleman who had been fleeced on
his way home on Friday night, called at Geo. Harrison's house, a licensed beer
shop in Boughton.—Here he took a friendly glass with Tagg and Jenkins; and from
thence Taylor and the ladies were conducted by Harrison to a noted house
recently occupied by John Jones, who is present an inmate of the City
College.—Harrison had the key of this house; and after he had unlocked the door,
and "shown the party upstairs," he did not quit the dwelling.—Between one and
two o'clock on Saturday morning Taylor discovered that £10 had been taken out of
his pocket; Mr. Hill said, Taylor told him that Harrison held him while Tagg
made her escape.— Taylor gave the alarm, crying out "thieves, murder," and a
watchman came up, and secured Jenkins and Harrison.—Mr. Geo. Dawson apprehended
Tagg on one of the Liverpool coaches this morning, and on her person was found
£5; and Mr. Hill took another female from Boughton, into custody, with £4 in her
possession.—As Taylor was not present to state his charge against the prisoners,
they were remanded for a further hearing. – [ Buckley and Abrahams, two
watchmen, who were charged to bring the prisoners from the gaol to the Court, on
the way thither accompanied them into a public-house, and partook of some drink
at the expense of the prisoners. They were seen coming out of the house by Ald.
Francis.—The Court ordered both the watchmen be suspended until the next meeting
of the Commissioners Police.]
Chester Chronicle - Friday 22 July 1831
Chester Police –July 16 –Before the Mayor, and Ald. Morris. Interrupting a
Constable.— Wm Sandland, was charged with interrupting T. Nabb, a Ward
Constable, while in the execution of his duty. The complainant stated that was
taking a man to gaol, a crowd of blackguards surrounded him and attempted to
rescue the prisoner; and that Sandland was one of the individuals so offending.
Nabb also said, that he and a man named Johnson, who was assisting him, were
severely beaten by the mob. Gould, a special Constable, who refused to assist
Nabb, after having been charged by him to do so, was ordered to pay for the
summons, and discharged. He was dealt thus leniently with because he declared
that was unwell, and in a very weak state body at the time. The Mayor
discharging Sandland and Gould said, he hoped that they and others would take
warning from what he was about to state. He was determined to protect the
Constables in the execution of their duty and persons who assist the officers,
when charged in the King's name, he was determined to visit them with the utmost
penalty (five pounds) which was provided by the law.
Chester Chronicle - Friday 7 October 1831
Chester Police – Wednesday before Ald. Francis - John Davies was brought before
the bench on a charge violently assaulting Thos. Minshull, a Ward Constable,
while in the execution of his duty, on Sunday afternoon.—Minshull stated that he
and another constable, on passing down Linen Hall street, were requested by a
young woman, to go into her mother's stable, and take out two dissolute females,
who were in it with Davies.—The constables proceeded to do so, upon which Davies
spoke to them through the loft window, and said that “if they came in there, he
settle them."—The constables afterwards pulled the staple out of the door, and
went into the stable; and on Minshull attempting to into the hay-loft, Davies
struck at him with pitch-fork, the prongs which passed through his clothes, and
very fortunately one prong went under his arm and the other above it on his
shoulder—had it taken different direction he might have lost his life. Davies,
seeing that had failed in the attempt, kicked Minshull on the face until he
obliged him to retrace his steps.—He was afterwards secured, was also the
unfortunate females. —Davies was ordered to find sureties to answer a bill of
indictment for the offence at the Sessions.
Advert from the Chester Chronicle - Friday 28 October 1831
Chester Courant - Tuesday 29 November 1831
City Constables. —Mr James Jones, of Handbridge, appeared before the magistrates
of this city, a few days ago, in consequence of having been returned as a fit
and proper person to serve as a constable during the continuance in office of
the present Mayor. When the Town Clerk was about to administer the usual oath to
Mr Jones, he refused to take it, and declared he would not serve the office on
any account. The Court accordingly ordered him to be indicted at the next
sessions, for refusing to be sworn in as a constable.
Chester Courant - Tuesday 6 December 1831
THE PLEASURES OF DRUNKENNESS. Henry Joinson, Thos. Youde, and Thos Croughton,
were ordered to find bail to answer any bill or bills of indictment which may be
preferred against them at the sessions, for kicking up a row in the streets on
Sunday morning, at one o'clock. Wm. Rice was fined ten shillings, and four
shillings costs, for assaulting John Gee, at twelve o'clock on Saturday night.
This worthy had been bound over to keep the peace three times within three
years; and had not the magistrates given their decision before they were aware
of that, they would have ordered his last recognizance to be estreated. Town
Clerk.- “Drunk, I suppose, Watchman?” Watchman.—“Drunk as a swab steeped in
rum, Sir”. Town Clerk.—“Are you married, Rice?”. Rice.—“Yes, Sir and I have one
child.” Town Clerk.—“The deuce you have!”. "Oh that man should put an enemy
into his mouth to steal away his brains! Now, you see, you have 14s to pay, or
you may have the benefit of imprisonment for one month.
Chester Courant - Tuesday 13 December 1831
CHESTER POLICE. SATURDAY, Dec 10. ASSAULT AND A BURGLARY.
James Bleads, Sam. Jones, John Dunn, and Wm. Burnet, were charged with breaking
into the house of John Phoenix, beer seller, of Boughton, between three and four
o'clock on Sunday morning, and assaulting the watchman, Thomas Stelfox, who
discovered them in the house, in a most brutal manner. Only Bleads was in
custody, and he was committed for trial.
Chester Courant - Tuesday 20 December 1831 CHESTER POLICE. On Saturday, a
fellow who called himself Edward Smith, a “wharp hand”, from Chesterfield, was
brought up and convicted of being a rogue and vagabond, and committed to Prison
for one month. This worthy was captured by Mr Hill, the superintendent of the
police, at a public house in Steven's Street, Boughton, and there is no doubt
that he came to this city with a gang of thieves from Liverpool, to try his hand
at housebreaking and robbery, as close to the spot on which he was sitting, Mr
Hill picked up ten skeleton keys, tied up in a handkerchief The handkerchief was
very wet, an indication that the keys had been “sprung” [sic] a few moments
before, for Operations that night. Mr Hill deserves praise for his intelligence
and zeal, in sending these rogues to the right about face.
Chester Chronicle - Friday 23 December 1831 CHESTER POLICE. SATURDAY, Dec. 17.
—Before the Mayor, and Aldermen Francis and Morris. A Comical Customer.—A
droll-looking fellow, calling himself Frederick Turner, was brought up : a
watchman, who found him loitering about the city, at one o'clock last night—and
on his refusing to give an account oh himself, he took him into custody. In
answer to several questions put him. Turner very churlishly replied at last, "I
comes out of Warwickshire, from a place they calls Brummagem." To many other
queries put to him, he was perfectly mute, and only returned a significant nod
now and then. Speakman (watchman) was ordered to show this travelling gentleman
the way out the city, and accordingly accompanied his charge; but they had not
proceeded farther than the shop of Mr. Dean, druggist, Northgate-Street, when,
this surly fellow stood still, became very unruly, and refused to on. Speakman
after reasoning with him, without avail, gave him a tap with his cane, on which
the fellow dashed his fist through two panes of Mr. Dean's window. Speakman
brought the "sturdy beggar" back to the court, and being asked by the Bench why
he had broken the windows, he, looking disdainfully at Speakman, and pointing to
him, said, "What business did he had to hit me with his stick." Mr. Dean
enquired whether there was any remedy for his loss to which the Town Clerk
replied, he was sorry that he had suffered by the violent conduct of this
vagrant—and, as he had penny in his possession, he could not inform Mr. Dean how
he could recover the amount.
Chester Chronicle – Friday 16 August 1833
Burglary.—Frederick Weigh, and William Wright (two native striplings) were
charged with breaking into the shop (being within the curtilege of the
dwelling-house) of Mr. Robt. Walton, grocer, in Northgate Street. The following
circumstances were detailed during the examination.—Samuel Abrahams, a watchman,
at two o'clock this morning, observed that the door of the cellar in which Mr.
Walton warehouses his goods, was open. He immediately closed it and stood upon
it, calling at the same time to the thieves in the cellar, and springing his
rattle.—Weigh, (whose voice he knew) answered him, saying. “Sam there's only two
us in the cellar; and we will surrender."—While the watchman kept his stand on
the door, the thieves twice tried lift it up, and throw him off. In a few
minutes two other watchmen came up, and they then went into the cellar and
secured Weigh.—At this moment they heard a noise in the back cellar, as if
proceeding from a person making his escape, and Weigh called out, "Come back
Will, we are done; it's a bad job."— On proceeding through the cellar, they
found that the door which led into the house had been forced open. Two watchmen,
accompanied by Mr. Carpenter, went up stairs, (Abrahams keeping Weigh in
custody) and they nearly reached the bed room door of Mr. Walton's shopman
before he awoke. The latter speedily joined them, and a diligent search was made
after the other intruder, but without effect.—By this time the Conductor of the
Watch arrived, and in “surveying" the premises he discovered that the delinquent
had effected his escape by bursting open the iron grating in the back cellar,
and thus reached the back yard, and scaled the wall, and by this means got clear
off. —There were several footmarks in some coal dust in the cellar, close to the
grating. A box of cigars had been removed from a shelf in the back cellar,
broken open, and placed on the floor, and several of them scattered about the
floor.—Mr. Hill, the Conductor, proceeded in search of Wright, whom he found
about four o'clock in bed in a lodging house. On the officers charging Wright
with the felony, made no reply; but he did afterwards and said that he and Weigh
had been drinking at a beer-shop Newtown (Flookersbrook); it was late when they
left it, and on going home they found they were locked out; they had taken a
good deal of drink, or this job would not have happened.—.Mr. Hill said Wright’s
face was very black with coal dust, as also were his clothes and shoes, at the
time he apprehended him.—The prisoners were remanded for further examination on
Wednesday. W ednesday before the Mayor, Aldermen Williamsin and Morris.
BURGLARY.—Frederick Weigh and William Wright, who were remanded on Monday,
charged of breaking into the premises of Mr. Walton, were brought for
re-examination.—Charlotte Price and Mrs. Lowe, proved that the prisoners were
drinking together in their houses (beer-shops) between nine and ten o'clock
Sunday night; and Job Venables, (a vendor of sheep's trotters and grey-peas)
residing in Northgate Street, said that they came to his house at 12 o'clock on
Sunday night, eat some trotters, etc. and left in company, at one o'clock.
—Tilston and Abrahams, watchmen, deposed that during the time that Mr. Walton's
shopman was detailing that part of his evidence, on Monday, relating to the door
leading out the cellar into the dwelling-house being secured on the previous
evening, Wright said, “I did not break it open; it was open."—Afterwards while
sitting down in Court, during the temporary absence of the magistrates, Wright,
alluding to the evidence of the Conductor of the Watch, said, “as to the box
cigars, its all a lie, I never moved them." When called up by the Town-Clerk in
the usual way. Weigh said, “I was in liquor at the time; and do not known how I
got into the cellar."—Wright said, “I was not in the cellar. I was in the house
an hour and a half before the robbery was committed."—Both the prisoners were
fully committed for trial.
Chester Chronicle - Friday 30 December 1836. Police Intelligence: Wednesday
before the Mayor and Aldermen Cross, Harrison and Morris. Hugh Jones, shoemaker,
was charged with being drunk and breaking the peace last night at 12 o'clock in
George's-street. Hartley, police constable C. 17, was drawn to the house of the
prisoner's mother by her screams, and arriving there found Jones abusing his
brother, whom immediately left and attacked the constable. He has been before
the court on other occasions for like offences, and he was therefore ordered to
pay the usual fine of 5s and costs for being drunk, and 10s for assault on the
constable: in default he was committed for 14 days. (Researchers note: This is
the first indication of a Constables identification number)
Chester Chronicle - Friday 12 May 1837 Weighing Machines to Let. The Grosvenor
Bridge and BOUGHTON MACHINES TO BE LET BY AUCTION, two Lots, at the Exchange, in
the city of Chester, on Friday the 16th day of June, 1837, between hours of one
and two o'clock in afternoon, subject to conditions, for the term of one year,
commencing on the first day of July, 1837, and ending the thirtieth day of June,
1838. Lot I.—The Weighing Machine and Dwelling-house adjoining, situate on the
embankment on the south side of Grosvenor Bridge, within the city of Chester.
Lot 2.—The Weighing Machine and Dwelling house adjoining, situate in Boughton,
also in the city of Chester, and now held by Thomas Meakin. For particulars,
apply FINCHETT-MADDOCK, Rows Clerk. Chester, May 11th, 1837. (Researchers Note –
This news item had been included due to the fact that Lot 1 The Grosvenor Bridge
Machine was subsequently operated by an ex Chester Police Officer, and Lot 2 The
Boughton Machine and House became the local Police Station – It is believed that
this house was also used by the County Police as well as the City Police)
Chester Chronicle – 16 June 1837 Assaulting Constables – William Allmark, who
has been repeatedly before the Court on various charges, was this day brought up
for assaulting police constable Richards C8, in the police office, where the
defendant had obtruded himself, and behaved very outrageously, at five o’clock.
He was intoxicated at the time, and he was muleted in the usual penalty and
costs for that offence, and in the sum of 40s and costs for the assault on the
constable. He was committed for six weeks in default of payment. In the next
case....Thomas Owens, who about twelve months since was convicted of several
very brutal assaults for which he suffered some imprisonment, was this day
charged with being drunk and breaking the peace on Sunday morning in Boughton,
and with striking police constable Capper C.23 with great violence on the face
and body. He was ordered to pay a fine of 20s, and costs for the assault, and 5s
for being drunk, and in default was committed for a month.
Chester Chronicle – Friday 23 June 1837
Undutifil Son. – John Smith, *******?*********brought up by Police Constable
***?*** stated that he was in attendance at the Police Office at eight o’clock
on Sunday morning when he was called upon by the prisoner’s mother to take him
into custody for abusing his father. Capper, accompanied by Police Constable
Richards, proceeded to Smith’s house, and followed him upstairs, at the top of
which the prisoner turned upon him with a long sharp knife, using the words,
“Now, Mister Capper, here’s into you!” Capper, being unable to use his cane on
the stairs to parry the blow, shrunk back, and thereby avoided injury, and the
prisoner took that opportunity to shut the Chamber door and bolt it. Capper
however burst open the door, and with the aid of his staff prevented the
prisoner using the knife, and they threw him on his back on the bed and secured
him, but it required the utmost exertion to convey him to gaol. The prisoner’s
father, who has been in his present employ many years, and it was understood, is
a very quiet man, gave testimony of his violent and ungrateful son’s conduct to
him, for which the Mayor called upon the prisoner to find bail and to stand
committed in the mean time; and also to pay a fine of 10s, and costs for
assaulting the police officer, with the alternative of 15 days imprisonment.
Chester Chronicle – Friday 1 June 1838
THE POLICE. We neither feel disposed to join in the outcry of one party against
police force, nor set ourselves up the defenders of its abuses. We are the
advocates of well-organised and well managed police, properly supported where
necessary, and effectually controlled within the bounds of temper and the law
all occasions; because we feel how the security of life and property depends
upon active police establishment. But we apprehend that much of the prevailing
in the case of the Chester police arises not much from men as the system. We
dislike in the first place the indiscriminate consignment to jail of parties for
being drunk and disorderly, when they might with a little tact be then
quietened, seen to their homes, or their personal recognizance’s taken, and then
summoned before the Magistrates to answer for their offence another day. Men,
otherwise decent, should not for mere indiscretions—indiscretions be it
remembered that are not the exclusive failings of only class of society, arc
common to all—for these things they should not, "having a local habitation and
name," be consigned to a dungeon for the night, unless upon more urgent
necessity than many of the cases we see warrant. The working man is as sensible
to the degradation having been in jail as the rich man; and his feelings ought
to be much respected. It appears to us, that much of the evil of the present
system of police in Chester arises from it’s not being properly carried out.
What required, a lock-up house in some central situation, say the Exchange,
where there ought to be an office for a night constable, whose duty should be to
receive all night charges, and take bail, even personal bail if in his
discretion he thinks is sufficient; and also to visit at intervals during the
night the various beats to see that the ‘Watch’ do their duty. Much of the
terror of men - even wrong doers if you will—at being taken into custody would
vanish, if the parties knew that it not necessarily lead to being locked up for
the night; but that course a was open that would admit of their being liberated
for the time, on condition of appearing before the magistrates another day, to
have the charge against them investigated. We understand that the police have
orders not make frivolous and vexatious arrests, nor to use undue violence in
the execution their duty, but to conduct themselves, as far as human nature will
admit, with firmness and good temper. This is a course of conduct that cannot
too often inculcated. Gross provocation is no doubt often given; but above all
men, police officers ought to be the last irritated by provocation. Where
temper, discretion, and conduct are wantonly departed from, then condign
punishment ought to follow- We throw out these remarks in the best spirit to the
watch committee, the members of which, on all occasions that we have seen have
evinced the greatest anxiety to fulfil functions, not over gracious in
themselves, with utility to public. But we cannot deem any system of police
above impeachment, which does not combine every protection the liberty of every
individual, well as security of life, property, and the public-peace. No man
ought to suffer needlessly even by his own wrong; else, how many of would pass
scathless.
Chester Chronicle - Friday 20 July 1838
Watch Committee.—On Monday last the watch committee met at the Exchange for
general business. The case of Rowlands, policeman, suspended for drinking with a
person whom he took into custody was investigated. The evidence of Mrs.
Griffith, publican, Watergate Street, was taken, and she stated that Rowlands
came into the house to make some enquiries respecting the man whom he took into
custody; he drank a small glass of ale, and then took the man to jail. The
committee considered there was nothing affecting Rowlands' character, and
ordered him be reinstated and his wages paid. Mr. Hill reported the death of
Speakman the beadle, and that he could provide for the service of summons's with
the present force. The committee, as it was in contemplation to establish
lock-up house at the Change, deferred appointing a successor, and ordered the
fees for service should for the present retained in the possession of Mr. Hill,
until further orders respecting them. The fire engine committee reported the
efficiency of the new engine, and recommended some trifling expenditure in
connection with the fire engine department and amongst the rest, clothing for
the firemen.
Watch Committee Meeting dated 3 January 1839:- Resolved: That William Steele,
Samuel Dutton and John Harrison be appointed regular Constables.
Chester Chronicle - Friday 11 January 1839:- AGAINST WATCHMEN. Mr. Bromfield,
surgeon, waited on the Committee to make complaints against the watchmen for
their duties. Mr. Bromfield stated that as a consequence of his professional
engagements, he was frequently out late at night, and had often passed through
several streets without seeing a single watchman whereas if he were to go to a
particular place where they were in the habit of meeting, he might find three
four of them standing talking together, some few nights since whilst going along
Pepper Street about twelve o'clock, he observed a soldier lying in the street,
apparently in a state of intoxication. He immediately went to look for a
watchman, for the purpose of having the soldier removed, but although he
searched a considerable-time, he was unable to find him. On going to the cross,
however, he saw two or three men, whom he informed the danger to which the
soldier was exposed, and they assisted in removing him. After waiting about an
hour the watchman came up, and on being questioned, stated that he had been on
his beat on the walls. The fact of the watchman's being so long absent was, in
his opinion a great impropriety, and measures ought to be taken prevent its
recurrence. A medical man had told him (Mr. B.) that he had passed through
several streets in Newtown without seeing a single watchman, and another
gentleman had stated that on returning home one night, he had seen three fast
asleep in Bridge street. Another inconvenience which he experienced was that if
any of his domestics wished to rise in the morning earlier than usual, they were
obliged to wait an hour or two at the door before they could see the watchman. A
few nights ago, he (Mr. B.) had been much disturbed by repeated knocks at the
door and shutters, and he was forced to sit so long at the window looking out
for the watchman, that he had caught severe cold by so doing. He thought that if
the watchman called the hour it would remove some of these inconveniences. Mr
Weaver remarked that there was but one watchman for the whole of Newtown. Mr.
Nicholls said he had occasion one night to return home rather late, and he came
along Boughton, Foregate-street, and Bridge-street, and did not see any watchman
until he reached the Two Churches, where there were three or four talking
together. Mr. Bromfield thought that the silent system if were given up, the
citizen, would be much more likely to know whether or not the watchmen were
attending to their duties. The Chairman observed that the silent system if
fairly carried out was undoubtedly the best; it gave increased facilities for
the detection of thieves. This was the reason why it had been adopted. Mr.
Bromfield said his answer to the Chairman was that three shops had lately been
broken open in Eastgate-street, although the silent system was acted upon. The
Chairman said that the districts of some of the watchmen were very extensive.
Mr. HaswelL Superintendent the watch, was then asked several questions the
Chairman, to the duties of the watch, and the security the public had that they
faithfully performed them at night whilst on their rounds. Mr. Haswell in reply
said, that the man who was on duty in Pepper-street, at the time alluded to by
Mr. Bromfield, was named Collier, and that this round was a short one, and ought
to have been gone through in a half hour. He (Mr. Haswell) was engaged with the
watch until two o'clock every morning, after which he left them, and retired to
rest until five o'clock when he again attended to receive their reports. The
interval from two to five o'clock in the morning, was the only period in the day
which he had to rest, and of course, during that time there was no positive
security that the watchmen were actually performed their duty. In Liverpool the
evil was obviated by the appointment of inspectors and Serjeants, whose duty it
was every hour to see that the watchmen were on their beat. With reference to
the watchmen being observed talking together, it sometimes happened that they
had communications to make to one another relating their duties. The Chairman
said the duties of Mr. Haswell were already very arduous, and it would be in
vain to think of entirely removing the evil complained of by Mr. Bromfield,
particularly as for three or four hours in the early of the morning, there was
no one looking after the watchmen. The appointment of serjeants would
necessarily increase the number of men, and consequently the borough rate, and
the public at present complained that the force was too numerous, although Mr.
Turner himself had been constrained to acknowledge that such was not really the
case. The only plan they could adopt, and even that would but partially remove
the evil, by giving security to the public that the watchmen were on duty would
be to direct them to call the hour as formerly. Mr. Fox observed that he was
favourable to the silent system but that was productive of irregularity, it
would be less an evil to call the hour than to increase the borough rate by the
appointment of serjeants and for that reason he would recommend the abandonment
of the silent system. All the members present took the same view of the
question, and a resolution was then moved Mr Nicholas, and seconded by Mr.
Harding, that the men be directed to call the hour.
New Police Constables :- Mr Haswell reported that three policemen, named Ithell,
Pollard and Doherty, had left the force, and submitted a list of names to the
Committee for the purpose of filling up the vacancies. Three men, named Steele,
Dutton and Harrison, were appointed. The Chairman then explained to the
policemen the nature of their duties, and directed them, not only to report
those public-houses in which persons were found tippling on the Sabbath, but
also those houses from whence drunken men were turned out previous to the
commencement of Divine Service.
Chester City Police News: in 1839, the Beats within the City Walls were reduced
in number.
Compliment of the City Police at this time - 1 Superintendent, 2 Sergeants and
16 Constables (a reduction of 7 Pc's)
Chester Chronicle - Friday 19 April 1839 : Thomas Sharp, charged on three
indictments with assaulting three police constables, Harrison, Carter, and
Harris, pleaded guilty. The prisoner was only discharged from gaol on Wednesday
morning, having served a term of three months' imprisonment for similar assault,
of which he had been convicted at the last sessions, and on the same evening
when intoxicated was guilty of the most violent conduct, in which the three
assaults in question took place. The constable Harrison stated the
circumstances; and Mr. T. Griffith, member of the town council, spoke as to the
violent conduct the prisoner. The Recorder said the police force must be
protected. Their conduct was highly creditable to them, and he must inflict
severe sentence. Sentence—to be imprisoned six months and kept to hard labour,
and at the expiration of his sentence find two sureties in 20/0s each for twelve
months to keep the peace, and to be imprisoned until the same be entered into.
Chester Chronicle - Friday 28 June 1839:- POLICE INTELLIGENCE. Saturday.—Drunk
and Disorderly - James Dryer and Michael Hennesey were charged both with being
drunk, and also the first with windows Watergate street, the last with striking
Harris in the execution of his duty. The defendants were navigators, and had
come into the city on Saturday evening order to have a slight row. Dwyer got
almost helplessly drunk, and when in that state fell against the windows of Mr.
John Hooler, in Watergate Street and broke two of them. He was taken into
custody, and the other prisoner followed him to the police office, and struck
Harris. The Mayor fined Dwyer the amount of the damage being one shilling; and
Hennesey ten shillings for the assault, and default payment to be imprisoned one
month.
Chester Chronicle - Friday 12 July 1839:- City Sessions – The usual sessions for
this City were held on Saturday last before Recorder John Cottingham Esq.,
Barrister at Law, Recorder. - STEALING TOBACCO. William Astbury, and Jane his
wife, were charged, the latter with stealing tobacco and snuff from the
manufactory of Messrs. Nicholls and Goff, and the former with receiving. Mr.
Temple was counsel for the prosecution, and Mr Townsend for the defence. The
short facts case are, that the female prisoner was employed at the manufactory,
and Mr. Hill having occasion to search their residence, a large quantity of
manufactured tobacco and snuff was found on the premises. This raised a
suspicion that it was stolen and the female prisoner said she had taken it for
herself and unknown to her husband. The male prisoner who was present at the
search, and asked Mr. Hill not to mention it, as It would ruin them and their
family. Both prisoners asked Harris, inspector police, to put the tobacco away
that Mr. Hill might not see so large a quantity. Evidence was called to the
character of the man, of satisfactory character. Verdict, William Astbury, not
guilty: Jane Astbury, guilty; both the jury and prosecutor recommended her to
mercy, and the Recorder sentenced her to be imprisoned for the space one
calendar month. The Recorder said the prosecution was very proper one, but the
male prisoner left the Court with an unstained character.
Chester Chronicle – Friday 18 October 1839
Watch Committee: Mr Harrison reported that the watch committee recommended that
4s per week be allowed for cleaning the lock-ups; and, that Policemen Rowlands
and Mackie have 5s each allowed them for meritorious service in the performance
of their duty, and quoted as an authority the municipal act. Mr Griffiths asked
if there was not a distinct fund, that created by fines, from which the reward
to the Constables could be paid? Formerly the rewards were paid from this fund.
Mr Alderman Turner said the police were much improved. Formerly they were a bad
lot, but the bad ones were weeded out, and he approved of the force as at
present constituted. Several of the council bore testimony to the efficiency of
both Rowlands and Mackie. The report was unanimously adopted.
Chester Chronicle - Friday 13 December 1839 Extract from the Watch Committee
meeting held on Thursday 12th December 1839 - INSPECTOR OF POLICE. “The
Committee then proceeded to the appointment of the Inspector of the Police
Force, in the room of Harris, who was recently discharged. There were four
candidates for the situation —William Copeland, policeman from Holywell,
recommended by B. Eyton, Esq. Mayor of Flint, and R. J. Mostyn, Esq. of; George
Bailey, linen-draper, Whitchurch, recommended by George Harper, Esq. and a
number of other gentlemen; James Saunderson, gardener, and Thomas Hampton, late
Mayor's Porter of this city. After some little discussion the claims of the two
latter candidates were laid aside, and on Copeland ascertaining the salary which
it was intended to give the new Inspector, he declined the office. Bailey was
accordingly fixed upon as Inspector, and has been taken for trial for a month.
We understand the salary is only £1 per week”.
CHESTER POLICE. On Thursday evening se'nnight, at a meeting the Watch Committee,
held at the Exchange, Mr. Matthew Harrison in the Chair, the Sub-committee
appointed, at a previous meeting, for the purpose of reporting on the charge of
the old and new systems of police, presented, through their Chairman, Mr. Thos.
Griffith, the following REPORT. " Report of the Sub-committee of the Watch
committee appointed the 20th day of November, 1839 consisting- of Mr. Sheriff
Griffith, (Chairman), Mr. John Weaver, Mr. John Lowe, and Mr. Wm. Fox:— Your
committee report on the unliquidated liabilities of the Watch Committee at the
close of the last financial year, and they find that there was due and owing, on
account principally of former years, and not set forth the published abstract of
accounts, per annexed schedule:— Watch and police account ..-£111.13.3d
Lighting, fire-engines, etc ...£711.6.4d Total £822 19 7d Your committee report
that in the last year the old municipal system, the following were the number
and description of persons employed as constables and watchmen: also the
estimated cost & actual charge of the same, and from what funds paid; being the
largest sum paid in one year for the seven years previous the Municipal
Amendment Act coming into operation Superintendent of police .. .. £60..
Conductor of watch £40. Beadle - -- £38 4 0 Ditto's clothing- £2 14 0 1
Constable £52. 22 Watchmen £663 16 2. Ditto's clothing - £9 17 6. Extra
constables and watchmen £56 18 1 Rent, coals, taxes, etc £43 17 Estimated cost
£967.7.1.