PRISONERS-- COMPULSORY 2ND EV

PRISONERS

READ IT AND THINK. YOU WILL DEFEND YUR CHICE IN CLASS!!
They have all applied to be set free on probation; if this is granted then they will resume their normal life but will have to report to the police at fixed intervals, and will certainly go to prison if they commit any further offence. Their applications were at first refused, but the local prison is so overcrowded that at least one of them will have to go on probation after all. Which one?

John Barker. Aged 22, unmarried. A pickpocket with one previous conviction. Clever, a skilled carpenter, but very unstable personality, moves quickly from job to job and girl to girl. Rather conceited, likes to boast about his thefts, but likeable.

May Croft. Aged 25, married with two children, found guilty of shoplifting. Tried to plead mental instability (kleptomania) but psychiatric examination did not support this. Says she loves her children, but constantly neglects them; they are being looked after by mother-in-law. Not on good terms with her husband.

Brad Jackson. Aged 20, unmarried, seriously injured a man in a drunken fight over a girl. Says he regretted it afterwards, blames it on drink. Often drunk and violent. No job, lives with his widowed mother who is much distressed but has no control over him. Hates prison, will do anything to get out.

Barbara Howard. Aged 21, unmarried, smuggled diamonds and watches, has been doing for some months before being caught. Daughter of rich and respected family, claims she did it for 'kicks'. Associates with rather wild, party-going, drug taking set, has used drugs herself, but not addicted. No permanent boyfriend, probably promiscuous. Shocked parents have disowned her.

Bob Mikes. Aged 37, married with three children, two at school. Worked in an office, found out boss was having affair with secretary, blackmailed him. When his demands became too high and he threatened physical violence if not paid, his employer told the police. Mike's wife claims she knew nothing. One previous conviction ten years ago for theft.

Simon Pattern. Aged 20, junior member of the Mafia-style protection racked that threatened small shopkeepers if they did not pay up. His girlfriend, wants to get married, promises will go straight. Does he mean it? Protection-racket boss (unidentified)has reported said he will "look after him" and "find him a job" when he comes out, if he tells no tales.