At West Kent Quarter Sessions, Maidstone, Benjamin Shepherd, confectioner, was charged with stealing two gross of aniseed balls and other articles, to the value of £3, the property of William Hodges, Chatham, between 1 June and 3 October.

William Hughes, groom, and Henry Edward Hughes were also indicted for the theft of the confectionery, and for receiving it, well knowing it to have been stolen.

They all pleaded not guilty, but after the case had been heard, Shepherd withdrew that plea, and admitted stealing the sweets. The jury found all guilty, and William Hughes and Shepherd were sentenced to four months’ hard labour, Henry Hughes to six months.