On This Day, 28 March 1917

Birmingham Mail

Wednesday 28 March 1917

FORTUNE-TELLER FINED.

BIRMINGHAM WOMAN’S CANDID CONFESSION.

Louisa Sterland, 3 back 11, Cope Street, was before the magistrates in the Second Court of Birmingham Police today, summoned for pretending to tell fortunes with intent to deceive. Police-constable Arthur Groom gave evidence to a visit to defendant’s house on March 13, and finding there five girls between the ages 18 and 20. Defendant produced a pack of cards, and admitted that the girls were there to have their fortunes told. Defendant said her husband committed suicide, and she was left with eight children. She produced a character from her employers, who said they had warned her, and that they understood the offence was due to economic circumstances with which they were not acquainted. Defendant said she only did it for fun and a few coppers. As defendant was a poor woman and had given her assurance that she would not offend again she was let off with a fine of 10s.