News: Earl Martin & Claude Groft arrested, 1913, Adams County, PA

Contributed for use in the USGenWeb Archives by Kathy Francis

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SOME “ACTOR”

Young Groft and His Confederate Use Clever Ruse to Get “5-Spot.”

Earl Martin, of near Hanover, was arrested on Saturday by Chief Kiser for being implicated with 
Claude Groft in the theft of a number of chickens from Mrs. Thomas Shildt, of near Mt. Rock, 
Adams county, last Thursday night.

It will be recalled that Groft had been arrested last Friday and is now under bail for court.

The chickens were stolen from Groft’s grandmother, an aged and hard working woman.

That Groft is some “actor” is demonstrated by a “stunt” he is said to have pulled off some time 
ago, of which his old grandmother was again the victim.

He is said to have gone to her home and told the old lady he was being chased by an officer and 
if she would give him a “five spot” it would keep him out of jail.  A few moments later it is 
said his “confederate” appeared and walking in the house placed his hands on Groft saying: “I 
have you now, so come with me.”

Groft, it is alleged then turned to his grandmother and once more made a plea to be kept from 
the law’s clutches.  The old lady’s heart was touched and she went up stairs and came down with 
the “fiver.”

The “officer” it is stated took the money and left the house.  A few hours later it is said 
both were seen spending the money for “booze.”


STOLE GRANDMOTHER’S CHICKENS.

Claude Groft, formerly of McSherrystown, was arrested by Chief Kiser Friday afternoon for the 
theft of a lot of chickens said to belong to his grandmother, Mrs. Thomas Shildt, of near Mt. 
Rock.

After being locked up the accused confessed where the chickens had been stolen.

Later in the day he was turned over to Officer John L. Daugherty, of McSherrystown.  He was 
given a hearing before Squire Geo. L. Rice, and gave bail for court.

The Hanover Herald – Saturday, December 13, 1913