Penge Penal Institute, 11 October, 10–30 am
Three 17-year-old youths from East Penge dealt with summarily by the Senior Correction Officer, on the unanimous recommendation of the local magistrates’ court. Offence: petty pilfering in the greengrocers on the high street.
Youth A (male), the ringleader, received 18 strokes of the birch, administered on his bare buttocks at 30-second intervals. Took punishment well and thanked the SCO afterwards.
Youth B (male) received 12 strokes of the birch, also administered on the bare buttocks at 30-second intervals. Had to be held down by Deputy Correction Officer Prendergast for the last three strokes and received an additional three strokes for refusing to thank his punishers. Left the room in obvious distress.
Youth C (female) was sentenced to 8 strokes of the cane. She was spared a birching by the court as it was accepted that she had been, in part, an unwilling accomplice. Burst into tears when it was explained to her that the cane strokes would be administered full force on her bare buttocks and begged to be allowed to retain her knickers. Request refused. Yelled her head off from the third stroke of the caning, but kept her position bravely, having been warned of serious consequences if she moved. Was picked up from the Institute by her mother, who thanked the correction officer for doing her duty and not being lenient with Youth C on grounds of her sex.
Signed: SCO RODWELL