Catalogue description Report of Charles Harvey, Recorder of Norwich on 1 collective petition (the prisoner and...

Report of Charles Harvey, Recorder of Norwich on 1 collective petition (the prisoner and 11 people including the prosecutor, magistrates and Lords Suffield and Wodehouse) on behalf of John Wiggett alias John William Smith convicted at the Norfolk Easter Quarter Sessions held at Norwich on 23 April 1816 for stealing a greatcoat, property of Michael Callow. There are 2 letters from Lord Wodehouse. Grounds for clemency: the prisoner is of previous good character, is the owner of land at Ellingham in Norfolk and has 300 acres of Land in East Bradenham, his wife has died leaving him with 2 children, he has become unsettled in his mind, has neglected his business, has been struck with other misfortunes, the prisoner has been reduced to most severe state of poverty and distress, committed the offence due to want of necessaries of life, the prisoner is now in ill health and has an offer of future employment. Initial sentence: 7 years transportation. Recommendation: speaks against mercy as the prisoner was found guilty at the same sessions of stealing property belonging to W. Smith and is believed to be a practiced thief. Folios: 376-383.