Eric Edward Brown, 1930 – Indecent assault

Below also see: Eric Edward Brown, 1933,
Eric Edward Brown, 1935 – Indecent assault
Eric Edward Brown, 1936,
Eric Edward Brown, 1937 – Indecent assault
Eric Edward Brown, 1939,
Eric Edward Brown, 1944 – Indecent assault

 

The Sydney Morning Herald, Sat 5 Jul 1930 ¹

BOGUS SCOUT.
———◦———
PROSECUTED AT NEWTOWN.
——

    The first case under the Boy Scouts’ Incorporation Act of NSW, 1928, was heard by Mr Cohen, SM, at the Newtown Police Court yesterday, when Eric Edward Brown 26, of Forest Lodge, was charged with having falsely represented himself as a scoutmaster.

    The defendant had been arrested the previous day by Detective Geldart and Morris, and evidence was tendered to show that he was not a member of the association. It was stated that the association had received numerous complaints respecting the conduct of the defendant from the country districts of New South Wales. His conduct had been detrimental to the organisation.

    Defendant pleaded guilty, and was fined £5, in default 14 days’ imprisonment.

    Upon charges of indecent assault, Brown was remanded until July 15, bail being allowed in the sun of £50.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

The Sydney Morning Herald, Tue 22 Jul 1930 ²

LAW NOTICES.
———
Tuesday, July 22.
———

…

QUARTER SESSIONS.

    No. 1 Court.—Thelma Chandler and Marie Harvie, conspiracy to cheat and defraud; Frank Maylands Lang, assault a girl under the age of sixteen years and commit an act of indecency; Eric Edward Brown, indecent assault (for plea only).

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Evening News, Mon 28 Jul 1930 ³

JUDGE FEARED
FOR ACCUSED
————
SENTENCE TO APPEASE
PUBLIC WRATH
————

“IF I were to let you off lightly, feeling might be provoked and people might take the law into their own hands,” said Judge Curlewis, at Sydney Sessions to-day, when he sentenced Eric Edward Brown, 26, news vendor, to three years’ gaol.

    Brown had pleaded guilty to two charges of indecent assault on boys.

    According to the police, Brown was for a time associated with the Salvation Army Scouts, but he was expelled owing to his conduct. Police had received numerous complaints from the Boy Scouts’ Association about Brown falsely representing himself as a scoutmaster.

    Brown, asking for leniency, said he was endeavoring to raise a scout troop at Newtown, and he took the boys to Collaroy to show them what camp life was like. He added that he had sent letters of apology to the mother of one of the boys, to the Newtown police, and to the secretary of the Boy Scouts’ Association.

FINE ORGANISATION

    Judge Curlewis said Brown had taken advantage of the fact that there was an organisation known as the Boy Scouts, which was recognised the world over as one of the finest institutions that could be imagined.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

The Newcastle Sun, Mon 28 Jul 1930 ⁴

HE APOLOGISED
———◦———
But Was Sent to Gaol
————
YOUTH’S BEHAVIOUR
————

Sydney, Monday.

    Imposing a sentence of three years’ imprisonment on Eric Edward Brown, 26, a newsvendor, Judge Curlewis, at the Quarter Sessions to-day, said that if he were to treat him lightly the public feeling might be provoked, and people might take the law into their own hands.

    Brown had pleaded guilty to two charges of gross misbehavior in the presence of boys. He came to this State about two years ago from Queensland, and was associated with the Salvation Army, scouts, until he was expelled owing to his behaviour

    Brown told the Judge that he sent letters of apology to the mother of one of the boys, to the Newtown police, and the secretary of the Boy Scouts’ Association.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Newcastle Morning Herald and Miners’ Advocate, Tue 29 Jul 1930 ⁵

GROSS MISBEHAVIOUR
————
Three Years’ Gaol
————

Sydney, Monday.

    Pleading “Guilty” at the Darlinghurst Sessions to-day to two charges of gross misbehaviour, Eric Edward Brown, aged 26, was sentenced by Judge Curlewis to three years’ imprisonment.

    His Honor refused to listen to a plea for leniency put forward by prisoner, saying that if he did so people might take the law into their own hands.

    Evidence was given that prisoner misconducted himself in the presence of boys, who complained to their parents. It was also stated that Brown was associated with the Boy Scouts’ Association, and many complaints were received regarding his conduct.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

The Sydney Morning Herald, Tue 29 Jul 1930 ⁶

QUARTER SESSIONS.
(Before Judge Curlewis.)

    Mr VH Treatt, Crown Prosecutor.

THREE YEARS’ GAOL.

    Eric Edward Brown, 26, a newsvendor, pleaded guilty to two charges of indecent assault [on John Clarence Slender].

    The gaol recorder stated that Brown had been fined £5 for falsely pretending to be a scout.

    Brown, who was undefended, pleaded for leniency.

    His Honor (to Brown): You take advantage of an organisation, the Boy Scouts, which is known all over the world, and is one of the finest institutions that could be imagined. … If I were to let you off lightly there would be indignation.

    Brown was sentenced to three years’ imprisonment on each charge, the sentences to be concurrent.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Eric Edward Brown, Gaol photo sheet ⁷

---

Gaol Photo Sheet - Transcribed Details 

Name Eric Edward Brown No. 24977 Date when Portrait was taken: 29-7-1930								Finger Print Classification
Native Place Queensland Year of Birth 25-9-1903 Arrived in State   Ship                        }     Year Trade or occupation previous to conviction  } Laborer Religion C of E Education, degree of R & W Height, without shoes 5' 7" Weight in lbs.     On committal 146                      }     On discharge Colour of hair Brown Colour of eyes Grey Marks or special features Nil					(Nos. of previous Portrait ... )
CONVICTIONS St 7574 97939
Court.	Date			Offence.		Sentence	Name.		Gaol No.
Newtown PC Sydney Q.S	4 28	7 7	1930 1930	Falsely pretend that he was a Boy Scout Indecent assault on a male person (2 counts)		£5.4.0 or 14 days HL 3 years HL on each charge. Concurrent	Eric Edward Brown ditto		3747  4280

 

---

Eric Edward Brown, 1933

 

The Brisbane Courier, Sat 14 Jan 1933 ⁸

BEFORE THE MAGISTRATES
———◦———
METROPOLITAN COURTS
———◦———

…

SIX MONTHS’ GAOL.

    Mr HL Archdall, CBE, CPM, sent Eric [Edward] Brown (28), labourer, on remand, to prison for six months. Brown pleaded guilty to five charges that, between December 6 and 17, at Brisbane, by falsely pretending to John James Davidson that he was a member of the Salvation Army, and was authorised to collect for them, he obtained clothing and other articles valued at £4/15/11. Senior Sergeant D McGrath prosecuted.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Daily Standard, Sat 14 Jan 1933 ⁹

SIX MONTHS’ GAOL.
———◦———
False Pretences.
————

    Five charges of obtaining clothing and other articles to the value of £4-15s11½d were preferred against Eric Brown, 28, laborer, in the Police Court, before Mr HL Archdall, CPM, in the Police Court yesterday.
    He received sentences amounting to six months’ imprisonment with hard labor.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

The Telegraph, Sat 14 Jan 1933 ¹⁰

IMPOSTER SENTENCED
———◦———
Collecting for Salvation Army
————

    Eric Brown, 28, labourer, appeared in the Police Court before the Chief Police Magistrate, Mr HL Archdall, CBE, in answer to five charges, of having obtained clothes and other articles of a total value of £4-15s-11½d, by falsely pretending between December 6 and 17 that he was a member of the Salvation Army and authorised to collect for them.

    The defendant, who pleaded guilty, was sent to prison for six months.

 

 

---

Eric Edward Brown, 1935

 

The Sun, Sun 26 May 1935 ¹¹

BAD INFLUENCE ON BOYS

Brisbane, Saturday.

    The activities of a man alleged to have sponsored “a boys’ brigade movement” “not so much for the sake of the organisation, but to satisfy the cravings of his immoral and filthy mind,” were described in the Summons Court to-day when Eric Edward Brown was sentenced to a month on a charge of indecent behavior. Evidence was that he had addressed the scholars of New Farm public school and enrolled some of them.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Sunday Mail, Sun 26 May 1935 ¹²

IMPOSTOR SENT TO GAOL
———◦———
Man Who Formed Boys’ Brigades
————
UNIFORM USED AS CLOAK

    The activities of a man alleged to have sponsored boys’ brigade movements, “not so much for the sake of the organisations, but to satisfy the cravings of his immoral and filthy mind,” were described in the Summons Court on Saturday.

THE disclosures were made by the police, after Eric Edward Brown, of Swan Road, Kedron (34), labourer, pleaded guilty to a complaint that, on March 28 last, he behaved in an indecent manner in the public lavatory of the Rocklea Railway Station. The information was laid by Plainclothes Constable CE Risch. Mr FCM Burne, PM, was on the bench.

    Detective Senior Sergeant TM Brannelly said that the defendant some time in March went to the New Farm State School, and, with permission, addressed the boys at the school with a view of forming a boys’ brigade. About March 22 the defendant met a certain boy, 12 years old, and also some other lads, on a corner of James and Brown Streets, New Farm, and enrolled their names in the boys’ brigade. With the particular boy in the case, the defendant interviewed the boy’s mother at her home, and obtained her permission to enrol the boy in the brigade. He arranged with the boys he had enrolled to visit a piece of vacant land near the wool stores at New Farm, and about 7.30 pm on March 25 the defendant met the boys, drilled them, and appointed two of them section leaders of the brigade.

LOOKED OVER A STEAMER

    The next day about 7.30 pm he took the boys to the Hamilton Wharf, where they looked over a steamer which was berthed there. On March 28 the defendant called at the home of the boy who had made the complaint, informed his mother that he had left his money at home, and borrowed 2/ to pay the fares of himself and the boy to Rocklea, where he intended to form a boys’ brigade. The defendant and the lad went to Rocklea by train, and then to a hall, in which he spoke to a number of boys about brigade matters.

    It had been arranged that the defendant and the boy should catch the 9.15 train from Rocklea back to town, but they missed it. They then went over to the railway station, and the defendant took the boy into the public lavatory where the alleged indecent behaviour took place. Later they resumed the journey home, and the defendant left the boy at the Valley Corner, Brisbane. About three weeks afterwards the boy’s father learned of the incident, and subsequently the police were informed.

WEARING UNIFORM

    The police found the defendant at his home on Friday, and when located he was wearing a uniform which he used as a cloak in order to impose on people to get their sons to join the organisations of which he was the sponsor, not so much for the sake of the organisations, but to satisfy the cravings of his immoral and filthy mind. He was a married man, and lived with his wife at Kedron. A previous conviction for an assault of this nature was recorded against him.

    “There is a genuine and accredited boys’ brigade,” Detective Senior Sergeant Brannelly remarked, “but the defendant is in no way connected with it.”

    The defendant said in view of the fact that he had recently been married, he would ask his Worship to impose a fine, which he would be glad and willing to pay. Nothing of this nature would occur again, because he was now married. His wife was alone in the home, and there was no one to take care of her. If she knew of the trouble it would break her heart. As a matter of fact when the police officer visited his home he had implored him not to mention the matter to his wife; as it was she nearly broke up as he left his home on Saturday morning to come to town. The defendant said he was sorry for what had happened.

DEFENDANT ASKS FOR FINE

    The Police Magistrate remarked that there was a previous offence in 1933 for which the defendant was sentenced to six months’ imprisonment.

    The defendant: If I am sentenced this time, my wife will be left alone in the home. Would you be good enough for her sake to impose a fine? I would be very grateful to you.

    The Police Magistrate: I cannot impose a greater punishment than the maximum of one month. If I had power, I would give you six months without any compunction whatever. I do not propose to impose a fine on you; I propose to give you imprisonment for one month. I further order you in addition to that to enter into your own recognisance of £40, and to find a proved surety in a like sum to be of good behaviour for 12 months, and in default of entering into such recognisance, you are to be imprisoned for a further period of six months.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

The Courier-Mail, Mon 27 May 1935 ¹³

INDECENT BEHAVIOUR
———◦———
DEFENDANT SENT TO GAOL

    In the [Brisbane] Police Court on Saturday, before Mr FCM Burnie, PM, Eric Edward Brown (34), labourer, Swan Road, Kedron, pleaded guilty to a complaint that on March 28 last he behaved in an indecent manner at the Rocklea railway station.

    Detective Senior-Sergeant TM Brannelly, who prosecuted, said that a previous conviction for an assault of the same nature, was recorded against the defendant, who asked for the imposition of a fine.

    The Police Magistrate: I cannot impose a greater punishment than the maximum of one month. If I had power I would give you six months without any compunction whatever. I don not propose to impose a fine on you; I propose to give you imprisonment for one month. I further order you, in addition to that, to enter into your own recognisance of £40, and to find a proved surety in a like sum to be of good behaviour for 12 months, and in default of entering into such recognisance you are to be imprisoned for a further period of six months.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Morning Bulletin, Mon 27 May 1935 ¹⁴

SENT TO GAOL.
———◦———
BRISBANE IMPOSTOR
————
Organiser of Boys’ Brigades
————
INDECENCY ADMITTED

Brisbane, May 26.

    The activities of a man alleged to have sponsored boys’ brigade movements, “not so much for the sake of the organisations, but to satisfy the cravings of his immoral and filthy mind,” were described in the Summons Court yesterday.

    The disclosures were made by the police, after Eric Edward Brown, of Swan Road, Kedron, 34, labourer, pleaded guilty to a complaint that, on March 28 last, he behaved in an indecent manner in the public lavatory of the Rocklea Railway Station. The information was laid by Plainclothes-constable CE Risch. Mr FCM Burne, PM, was on the Bench.

    Detective Senior Sergeant TM Brannelly said that the defendant some time in March went to the New Farm State School, and, with permission, addressed the boys at the school with a view of forming a boys’ brigade. About March 22 the defendant met a certain boy, 12 years old, and some other lads, on a corner of James and Brown Streets, New Farm, and enrolled their names in the boys’ brigade. With the particular boy in the case, the defendant interviewed the boy’s mother at her home, and obtained her permission to enrol the boy in the brigade. He arranged with the boys he had enrolled to visit a piece of vacant land near the wool stores at New Farm, and about 7.30 pm on March 25 the defendant met the boys, drilled them, and appointed two of them section leaders of the brigade.

LOOKED OVER A STEAMER.

    The next day about 7.30 pm he took the boys to the Hamilton Wharf, where they looked over a steamer which was berthed there. On March 28 the defendant called at the home of the boy who had made the complaint, informed his mother that he had left his money at home, and borrowed 2s to pay the fares of himself and the boy to Rocklea, where he intended to form a boys’ brigade. The defendant and the lad went to Rocklea by train, and then to a hall, in which he spoke to a number of boys about brigade matters.

    It had been arranged that the defendant and the boy should catch the 9.15 train from Rocklea back to town, but they missed it. They then went over to the railway station, and the defendant took the boy into the public lavatory where the alleged indecent behaviour took place. Later they resumed the journey home, and the defendant left the boy at the Valley Corner, Brisbane. About three weeks afterwards the boy’s father learnt of the incident, and subsequently the police were informed.

WEARING UNIFORM.

    The police found the defendant at his home on Friday, and when located he was wearing a uniform which he used as a cloak in order to impose on people to get their sons to join the organisations of which he was a sponsor, not so much for the sake of the organisations, but to satisfy the cravings of his immoral and filthy mind. He was a married man, and lived with his wife at Kedron. A previous conviction for an assault of this nature was recorded against him.

    “There is a genuine and accredited Boys’ Brigade,” Detective Senior Sergeant Brannelly remarked, “but the defendant is in no way connected with it.”

    The defendant said that in view of the fact that he had recently been married, he would ask His Worship to impose a fine, which he would be glad and willing to pay. Nothing of this nature would occur again, because he was now married. His wife was alone in the home, and there was no one to take care of her. If she knew of the trouble it would break her heart. As a matter of fact when the police officer visited his home he had implored him not to mention the matter to his wife; as it was she nearly broke up as he left his home that morning to come to town. The defendant said he was sorry for what had happened.

DEFENDANT ASKS FOR FINE.

    The Police Magistrate remarked that there was a previous offence in 1933 for which the defendant was sentenced to six months’ imprisonment.

    The defendant: If I am sentenced this time, my wife will be left alone in the home. Would you be good enough for her sake to impose a fine? I would be very grateful to you.

    The Police Magistrate: I cannot impose a greater punishment than the maximum of one month. If I had power, I would give you six months without any compunction whatever. I do not propose to impose a fine on you; I propose to give you imprisonment for one month. I further order you in addition to that to enter into your own recognisance of £40, and to find a proved surety in a like sum to be of good behaviour for 12 months, and in default, entering into such recognisance, you are to be imprisoned for a further period of six months.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

The Central Queensland Herald, Thu 30 May 1935 ¹⁵

SENT TO GAOL
———◦———
Organiser of Boys’ Brigades

Brisbane, May 26.

    The activities of a man alleged to have sponsored boys’ brigade movements, “not so much for the sake of the organisations, but to satisfy the cravings of his immoral and filthy mind,” were described in the Summons Court yesterday.

    The disclosures were made by the police, after Eric Edward Brown, of Swan Road, Kedron, 34, labourer, pleaded guilty to a complaint that, on March 28 last, he behaved in an indecent manner in the public lavatory of the Rocklea Railway Station. The information was laid by Plainclothes-constable CE Risch. Mr FCM Burne, PM, was on the Bench.

    Detective Senior Sergeant TM Brannelly said that the defendant some time in March went to the New Farm State School, and, with permission, addressed the boys at the school with a view of forming a boys’ brigade. About March 22 the defendant met a certain boy, 12 years old, and some other lads, on a corner of James and Brown Streets, New Farm, and enrolled their names in the boys’ brigade. With the particular boy in the case, the defendant interviewed the boy’s mother at her home, and obtained her permission to enrol the boy in the brigade. He arranged with the boys he had enrolled to visit a piece of vacant land near the wool stores at New Farm, and about 7.30 pm on March 25 the defendant met the boys, drilled them, and appointed two of them section leaders of the brigade.

LOOKED OVER A STEAMER.

    The next day about 7.30 pm he took the boys to the Hamilton Wharf, where they looked over a steamer which was berthed there. On March 28 the defendant called at the home of the boy who had made the complaint, informed his mother that he had left his money at home, and borrowed 2s to pay the fares of himself and the boy to Rocklea, where he intended to form a boys’ brigade. The defendant and the lad went to Rocklea by train, and then to a hall, in which he spoke to a number of boys about brigade matters.

    It had been arranged that the defendant and the boy should catch the 9.15 train from Rocklea back to town, but they missed it. They then went over to the railway station, and the defendant took the boy into the public lavatory where the alleged indecent behaviour took place. Later they resumed the journey home, and the defendant left the boy at the Valley Corner, Brisbane. About three weeks afterwards the boy’s father learnt of the incident, and subsequently the police were informed.

WEARING UNIFORM.

    The police found the defendant at his home on Friday, and when located he was wearing a uniform which he used as a cloak in order to impose on people to get their sons to join the organisations of which he was a sponsor, not so much for the sake of the organisations, but to satisfy the cravings of his immoral and filthy mind. He was a married man, and lived with his wife at Kedron. A previous conviction for an assault of this nature was recorded against him.

    “There is a genuine and accredited Boys’ Brigade,” Detective Senior Sergeant Brannelly remarked, “but the defendant is in no way connected with it.”

    The defendant said that in view of the fact that he had recently been married, he would ask His Worship to impose a fine, which he would be glad and willing to pay. Nothing of this nature would occur again, because he was now married. His wife was alone in the home, and there was no one to take care of her. If she knew of the trouble it would break her heart. As a matter of fact when the police officer visited his home he had implored him not to mention the matter to his wife; as it was she nearly broke up as he left his home that morning to come to town. The defendant said he was sorry for what had happened.

DEFENDANT ASKS FOR FINE.

    The Police Magistrate remarked that there was a previous offence in 1933 for which the defendant was sentenced to six months’ imprisonment.

    The defendant: If I am sentenced this time, my wife will be left alone in the home. Would you be good enough for her sake to impose a fine? I would be very grateful to you.

    The Police Magistrate: I cannot impose a greater punishment than the maximum of one month. If I had power, I would give you six months without any compunction whatever. I do not propose to impose a fine on you; I propose to give you imprisonment for one month. I further order you in addition to that to enter into your own recognisance of £40, and to find a proved surety in a like sum to be of good behaviour for 12 months, and in default, entering into such recognisance, you are to be imprisoned for a further period of six months.

 

---

Eric Edward Brown, 1936

 

The Telegraph, Sat 8 Feb 1936 ¹⁶

CANVASSER IMPOSES BY REFERENCE
TO ALLEGED COUNCIL ORDER
———◦———

    How a man canvassing with sanitary blocks, imposed on a woman by telling her that he was a representative of the City Council and that it had brought in a new regulation which made it compulsory for all householders to purchase and instal this particular block, was related in the Police Court to-day.

    The case was that in which Eric Edward Brown, of Russell Street, South Brisbane, was charged that on January 13, at St Lucia, he imposed on Francis Tinnerman with a view to obtaining a sale of an article. The defendant pleaded guilty.

    Detective Senior Sergeant TM Brannelly stated that the defendant was canvassing in the St Lucia district with sanitary blocks and told the complainant that he was a representative from the Brisbane City Council which had recently brought in a new regulation which made it compulsory for all householders to purchase and instal this particular sanitary block.

“GAVE A RECEIPT.”

    The defendant said that the price was 2s 8d, but accepted 2s. He gave her a block and a receipt, which, however, did not bear any stamps or emblem of the City Council. The complainant drew his attention to it and demanded her money back. The defendant left. When the complainant complained to the City Council it declared that no such regulation as mentioned by the defendant had been brought in and reported the matter to the police.

    When questioned by the police the defendant admitted that he had canvassed different suburbs telling the same story for the purpose of pushing his sales.

    The prosecutor said that the defendant was a married man. He had been previously convicted for dishonesty.

    The defendant: “I was trying to make a few sales, and had only a few left. I am quite prepared to give the lady back her money and let her keep the block as well.”

    Mr W Simpson, Police Magistrate, fined the defendant £2, in default imprisonment for 14 days; 14 days were allowed in which to pay.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

The Courier-Mail, Mon 10 Feb 1936 ¹⁷

POSED AS COUNCIL
REPRESENTATIVE

    Eric Edward Brown, of Russell Street, South Brisbane, was fined £2, in default 14 days’ imprisonment, by Mr W Simpson, PM, in the Police Court on Saturday, on a charge of having, at St Lucia, on January 13, imposed on Frances Tinnerman with a view to selling an article.

    Detective Senior-Sergeant TM Brannelly said that the defendant stated to the complainant that he was representing the Brisbane City Council, and that the council had recently passe a regulation that householders had to install a sanitary block in outhouses. He further said that the price of the block was 2/6, but when he was told by the complainant that she had only 2/-, he said that would do and gave her a receipt for that amount.

 

---

Eric Edward Brown, 1937

 

Truth, Sun 2 May 1937 ¹⁸

Should This Man Run A Boy’s Brigade?
————
GOLDEN STAR
————
HAS CONVICTIONS FOR
SERIOUS OFFENCES

    Maybe, so quietly have they come into view, you haven’t been particularly struck by the brilliance of Brisbane’s Golden Stars. The Golden Stars must not be confused with some new phenomena of the heavens, giving rise to astronomical activity and curiosity, but are, to award them their rightful place in terrestrial schemes, the nuclei of an organisation somewhat strange to Queensland—the Golden Star Brigade Association. Young Queensland boys of ages ranging between 12 and 16 are being invited to join this movement, but it is safe to say that there are certain things of which parents are unaware, otherwise the limited success it has met with so far would hardly have been achieved. “Truth” considers it a matter of foremost public interest to shed a little light on the Golden Star movement, and at the same time suggests that the authorities might look into the position so far as youth movements are concerned.

“TRUTH” WARNS PARENTS IN
INTEREST OF YOUTHS

    At the head of the Golden Star Brigade Association—in fact, solely responsible for it being known to Brisbane—is a man, Eric Edward Brown, whose police court convictions, both here and in Sydney, for offences of a certain nature make it highly desirable that his fitness to hold such a position among young boys be very closely inquired into by the authorities.

CANDIDLY, and with all due deference to his ambition, explained in an interview with this newspaper, to have his Golden Stars luminescent all over the State, “Truth” doesn’t think that Brown possesses the necessary qualifications, and considers that the sooner the effulgence of the Golden Stars Association under his aegis is dimmed the better.

    It is known that the police have shown a commendably prompt interest in this organisation and its sponsor, and that a report dealing with the brigade’s activities has been furnished. A watchful official eye is being kept upon the position, but there seems to be no restrictions in regard to matters of this nature, and anybodyis apparently at liberty to set himself up as an organiser of so-called youth movements, and canvass membership where he will.

    The situation, such being the case, is deplorable. It would be well for the Home Secretary (Mr EM Hanlon) to go thoroughly into the question with a view to seeing that the antecedents of all who seek to carry out such important work as this are minutely examined by responsible officials, who should possess power to prohibit or to allow their activities.

ADMITTED CONVICTIONS.

    According to Brown’s statements to “Truth” last week, there are approximately 40 boys between the ages of 12 and 16 at present members of the Golden Star Brigade Association. During the same interview he admitted that he had been convicted for serious offences, receiving a sentence of three years on one occasion in Sydney, and being punished also in Brisbane.

    He claimed that those incidents belong to the past, and that his is the right to prove he has reformed and, as he himself put it, “can resist temptation.” Whether, however, he should be allowed to pursue that right as the “Leader” of an organisation for young boys is something about which the authorities should convince themselves.

    That such a movement as the “Golden Stars” exists in England, reputably, and has a considerable following, is beside the real point of how a similar movement should be allowed to develop in this country. Brown lately seems to have noticed some [some text missing here] to it in an overseas publication [some text missing here] thereupon decided that [some text missing here] could suitably accommodate a branch of it.

    Some time was spent by “Truth” in the tiny room that serves as an office in a George-street building, and which makes no other claim to being the Golden Star’s “headquarters” than to display a hand-lettered notice inscribed “Queensland Branch Golden Star Brigade.”

    Brown was located by “Truth” working among a gang engaged on a relief job in the vicinity of the Nundah railway station, and it was at the conclusion of his day’s labors that he granted representatives of this newspaper a lengthy interview.

    As to the financial aspect of his Golden Stars and the Association’s aims and objects where its youthful members are concerned, the best ideas of these things can be gained from Brown’s own explanations made during the interview.

    “Just what Is this Golden Star Brigade Association?” “Truth” asked Brown when it finally made contact with him on the job at Nundah. “How did it come into operation in this country? Are you familiar with its ramifications? Who is the controlling head of it?”

    Brown explained at some length. “It is really run by the ‘Christian Herald’,” he told us.

    “An English Journal?” we queried.

    “That’s right,” Brown assured us.

    “It’s an international organisation,” he went on. “Cousin Frank, you know, that’s the fellow who runs it.”

    “Truth”: We don’t know “Cousin Frank.” Where is he to be found?

    Brown: Oh, he’s in England; Tudor-street, London.

    He explained that he communicated with “Cousin Frank” every two months or so on matters relating to the Brigades. “I sort of keep him in touch with how things are going along in Queensland,” added Brown.

 

ITS AIMS

 

    “Truth”: But what are the aims and objects of the association?

    Brown: Oh, its general idea is to function in the interests of young boys and help them physically and in other respects with the aid of gymnasium work and instruction in first aid and, oh, well, you know, other organised games of all descriptions.

    “Such as . . . ?” said “Truth” helpfully.

    “Oh, you know, boxing and wrestling and football and things like that,” Brown explained.

    ”Truth”:How long has the association been in existence in Queensland?

    Brown: I’ve been connected with it here for a little over 18 months, but, of course, apart from it being the “GSB” there are also other branches of it known as Boys’ Pastime Clubs. They’re run by the churches, I think. Mind you, it has nothing to do with the Boys’ Brigade at Red Hill.

    “Truth”: What are the churches interested in them?

    Brown: I’m not certain.

    “Truth”: And who’s in charge so far as the Golden Star part of it all is concerned?

    Brown: I communicate with London, of course, but otherwise I’m in sole control. There is a Mr —. He was up here from Sydney last week, but he’s gone back.

    “Truth” : What are the ages of the boys who join up?

    Brown: Any boy between 12 and 16 is eligible.

    “Truth”: And how does the roll stand? What is the present strength of the Brigade in Queensland?

    Brown: There would be about 25—er—no— 42— no; there would be about 40 boys, as far as I can recollect.

    “Truth”: What? Forty subscribers altogether over a period of about 18 months?

     Brown: Oh, we did have a Brigade down at Burleigh, but most of the boys in that have grown up. Now we have Brigades at Bald Hills and Glass Mountains. Why, we had a fine parade at Glasshouse on Anzac Day. About 10 took part in it.

    “Truth”: And that’s the sole territory covered by the Golden Star at the moment. No brigades anywhere else?

    Brown: There’s Sandgate, but I’m not sure of the strength there. And, oh, yes. I've written to Yandina about it, but there has been no reply so far.

    “Truth”: What about the financial situation of jour movement?

    Brown: Well, there is a weekly subscription of 3d to be paid by each boy, and an amount of 4/6 which each contributes on joining up is expended on the purchase of the uniform, which consists of a blue shirt with tie and a blue cap.

    “Truth”: Is that the actual cost price of the uniform, or is there a slight profit on them?

    Brown: Oh, no, I pay that full amount.

    “Truth”: And how about this 3d a week subscription? Are there any funds in hand?”

    Brown: All the money contributed goes into the movement. I work purely n an honorary capacity, and at the moment we have no money in hand. It has been spent in the purchase of sporting materials for the boys.

    In this connection Brown explained, an amount of £1 had been spent in purchasing boxing gloves and a foot ball for the Bald Hills Brigade, and he assured “Truth” that after an inspection of his books he would be prepared at a later stage to furnish a full statement as to the association's accounts.

    “Truth”: Well, anyway, although the movement has been operating for 18 months or so there is no cash on hand at the moment.

    Brown: That’s right. Each Friday night, of course, they bring along their threepence.

    “Truth”: And they go into the purchase of sporting material, too? You don’t worry about payment for your labors? You just work for the pleasure you derive out of it?

    Brown: Exactly. If there’s any show going in a district, people might approach me and request a display of some sort from our members. That pleases me, and I’m always happy to arrange it. It’s all done in the interests of the boys.

    “Truth”: You take a real interest in the welfare of young boys, then?

    Brown: Yes, and not wholly boys, but girls, too. I’m interested in youth movements generally. He explained how he had come to cultivate this interest. At one time, he said, he was a member of the Salvation Army, both here and in Sydney. In the south he had been connected with the Army’s scout movement for nine months, and added considerably to a knowledge of this work, first gained when, as a boy, he had been a member of the First Kangaroo Point Troop.

    “Ever since my days as a boy scout at Kangaroo Point I have been interested in work associated with boys and girls.” he told us.

    “Truth”: You realise, of course, that through being associated with a movement of this nature the public is more or less interested in you. Any movement devoted to the cause of youth and encouraging in its ranks young boys who may be drawn from any part of the State naturally attracts the notice of the people. They like to know what it’s all about, and who’s running things; particularly the parents of young sons.

    Brown: That is so. I want everybody to know all there is to be known about the Golden Star Brigade Association. It would be a nice thing if we could get it all through Queensland don’t you think?

    “Truth”: Very nice, and for one thing there’s the question of the public generally knowing something about whoever is going to be responsible for making the movement so widely known.

    “Of course,” assented Brown.

    “Truth”: There was an occasion previously when you found yourself in trouble over your actions when you were associated with a boys’ club of some description. Your behavior towards one of the lads resulted in your appearance before the police court, didn’t it?

    Brown: Well, yes, that’s right. It was a football and boxing club at Rocklea. A charge of indecent behavior was brought against me, and I couldn’t pay the fine, and did a month’s gaol. Of course, that affair's over, and I’m anxious to live the past down. One makes a mistake, you know.

    “Truth”: Have you made any other mistakes of that nature?

    Brown: One or two, yes.

    “Truth”: As a matter of fact, in Sydney, in 1930, you received a sentence of three years’ imprisonment for an extremely serious “mistake.” That was an offence involving a male person, wasn’t, it?

    Brown: That’s right.

    “Truth”: And three years later, in Brisbane, you received a six months sentence for assault?

    Brown: Yes, I did.

    “Truth”: And in 1935 you were convicted on an indecent behavior charge?

    Brown: That’s right.

    “Truth”: And early last year weren’t you in court on a charge of imposition and fined £2 in default imprisonment for 14 days?

    Brown: Yes, I was telling you about that one.

    “Truth”: In view of the nature of the offences relating to several of these convictions don’t you think that the public might be somewhat perturbed to learn that you are at the head of the Golden Star Brigade Association, a movement devoted to the welfare of young boys?

    Brown: The public doesn’t know, and I want to show these people who do know a little about my past that I can prove myself.

    “Truth”: You really think that you’re properly for the role you have taken upon yourself, and that you’re a competent person to perform these duties?

    Brown: Naturally.

    “Truth”: Parents, of course, who are willing to allow their sons to join the Golden Stars aren’t aware of these things. For instance, you don’t tell them before you accept their children as your charges and thus give them an opportunity of showing their confidence in you, if they so desire, by raising no objections?

    Brown: I don’t want them to know. I’ve got no intention of going wrong again in any shape or form. I was tempted before, but I can resist temptation now if it should ever happen to arise.

     “Truth” has no observations to make upon that point, but it does reiterate its opinion that this man Brown, for all his good intentions in the future, is, on his behavior in the past, not a fit and proper person to have charge of young boys.

    As to that opposite view of Brown’s, it will leave the public, and particularly those among it who are parents, to be the judge.

    And it has no doubt that for most the shine will be taken right off the Golden Star.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

The Telegraph, Sat 14 Aug 1937 ¹⁹

SIX MONTHS FOR
ASSAULT ON A BOY
———◦———
Founder of Boys’ Organisation

     When Eric Edward Brown, described by the police as the founder of a boys’ organisation called the Golden Star Brigade, pleaded guilty in the Police Court to-day on a charge of having unlawfully assaulted a boy under the age of 14 years, the police prosecutor (Detective Sergeant TW Harold) said that the defendant had interfered with the lad in a hut near Glass House Mountains, whither he had taken a party of his youthful followers ostensibly for the purpose of attending a church parade.

    The defendant told Mr FCM Burne, PM, that he had no evil intentions when he took the lads to the hut the that night.

    Mr Burne sentenced him to imprisonment for six months.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Sunday Mail, Sun 15 Aug 1937 ²⁰

ASSAULT ON BOY
———◦———
MAN SENT TO PRISON

    Some months ago defendant was engaged in the formation of what he called the “Golden Star Brigade,” which he intended to run on similar lines as the boys’ scout movement, said Detective Sergeant TW Harold in the Police Court on Saturday.

    Eric Edward Brown (32, labourer) had pleaded guilty to having on April 25, 1937, at Glasshouse Mountains, near Landsborough, unlawfully assaulted Cecil Parsons, a boy under 14 years of age.

    The prosecutor explained to Mr FCM Burne, PM, who was on the Bench, that on April 24 last, defendant took a party of five boys to Glasshouse Mountains, and when arriving at Bald Hills he sent three of them to camp with some people in the district. The other two boys camped with him in a hut, and early on the morning of April 25 defendant assaulted the boy Parsons. A very serious offence was only prevented by the appearance of the other three boys shortly afterwards. Defendant lived apart from his wife, and he had previous convictions for sex offences.

    Mr Burne sent him to prison for six months.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Truth, Sun 15 Aug 1937 ²¹

“TRUTH”
JUSTIFIED
———◦———
Organiser Of Golden
Stars Gaoled
————
SERIOUS CRIME

GAOL gates clanged yesterday on the self-styled “Commander” of the Golden Star Brigade Association for Boys, Eric Edward Brown the depraved creature whose exploits and ambitions have been previously exposed by “Truth.” He was sentenced to six months’ imprisonment yesterday morning and with his conviction “Truth’s” warning to parents not to let their sons have anything to do with Brown’s brigade has been fully justified.

    When this, newspaper issued its warning, and told the history of Brown’s organisation, it revealed him for what he is— a man whose police court convictions here and in Sydney brand him as unfit to hold any position among young boys.

    “TRUTH” stated that Brown, according to his police record, is a dangerous pervert, having been convicted more than once for serious offences. He once received a sentence of three years in Sydney. He had also been punished in Brisbane on a number of occasions for crimes concerning boys.

    “Truth” suggested that the police should keep a watchful eye on his activities, and his brigade, because a man of his character had no right to be organiser of any so-called youth movement.

WITH PARTY OF FIVE

    How well-founded was the warning of “Truth” was demonstrated in the Brisbane police court yesterday morning when Brown was convicted of an assault on a boy under the age of 14, and was sentenced to six months’ imprisonment.

    Brown hung his head, as he pleaded guilty to having, at Glass House Mountains, near Landsborough, on April 25, unlawfully assaulted a boy under the age of 14.

    Police Prosecutor TW Harold told Magistrate Burne that Detective Weildon had discovered now Brown organised a movement called the Golden Star Brigade Association—supposed to be on the lines of the Boy Scouts’ movement. He did some canvassing and secured a number of enrolments of boys round the age of 14 years.

    On April 24, said the prosecutor, Brown took a party of five boys to the Glass House Mountains, for the purpose of holding a church service, or something of the sort.

    The party left the train at Bald Hills, and then proceeded to the famous mountains named by Captain Cook. Three of the lads he sent to stay with a family Brown knew in the district, and the remaining two he ordered to remain with him.

    These two he took to a bush hut, where a bush bed was made up. He and the boys slept in the hut that night. Early next morning, Brown attempted an offence on one of the boys.

    “Only the timely arrival of the other three lads prevented the commission of a very serious offence,” said Detective Harold.

    “This man,” he added, “has previous convictions for very serious sexual offences.”

    Asked if there was anything he wished to say, Brown, lifting his head and speaking in a faltering voice, replied: “What the police say is correct, but I had no evil intentions, I ask you to give me a fine. I haven’t been in trouble for some time, you know.”

    “Imprisonment for six months,” said the PM, curtly, and Brown, crying now, was led away.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

The Richmond River Herald and Northern Districts Advertiser, Tue 17 Aug 1937 ²²

BRIEF MENTION.

…
    Eric Edward Brown, 32, laborer, married but living apart from his wife, was sentenced to six months in Brisbane on Saturday, for an offence against a boy—one of a number whom he took on a bush scouting expedition. He had been convicted of sex offences before.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Truth, Sun 19 Sep 1937 ²³

NOT ASSOCIATED WITH
REAL GOLDEN STAR
———◦———
GAOLED MAN REPUDIATED

    An echo of the impudent attempt by Eric Edward Brown to pass himself off in Queensland as leader of an Australian branch of a well-known overseas youth movement, the Golden Star Brigade, has come back from London, as a result of “Truth’s” revelations concerning Brown’s history and his activities.

    “Truth” has received a letter from the proprietors of “The Christian Herald,” Tudor-street, London, emphatically dissociating themselves from Brown and his efforts to localise the Golden Stars, an organisation which, controlled by this company, enjoys high standing among movements of its kind.

IN its issue of May 2 of this year “Truth” exposed Brown for what he was and, on his own admissions, revealed him as a person entirely unfitted to hold any position among young boys. During the course of “Truth’s” Investigations Brown claimed that he was enrolling boys between the ages of 12 and 16 as members of his Golden Star Brigade (Qld branch) and that he was solely responsible for the organisation being known in this State.

    He further admitted to “Truth” that he had been convicted for offences of a certain nature, but piously declared that he had “reformed” and should be given an opportunity to show that he could resist temptation.

    Three months later, on August 14 last, Brown appeared in the Brisbane police court and was sent to gaol for six months for an assault on a boy under the age of 14. It appeared that—obviously in connection with his so-called Golden Star activities, and before the publication of “Truth’s” exposure—he had accompanied a party of young lads to Glasshouse Mountains, ostensibly for the purpose of holding some sort of service. The charge on which he was convicted and sentenced to prison arose out of this trip.

    “Truth” acknowledges following letter from the Christian Herald Company Ltd, in London, in connection with Brown’s masquerade!

“Dear Sir,—
We have received from one of our Australian readers a copy of your paper, dated May 2, 1937, containing, an article giving prominence to the activities of one Eric Edward Brown. We have read the article very carefully, and take great exception to the suggestion (Brown’s own, of course—‘Truth’) that this man is or ever was connected with the ‘Christian Herald’ or the movement known as the Golden Star Brigade, .which is run by the “Christian Herald.” Such suggestion is entirely without foundation. Further, the statement made by Brown that he communicates with ‘Cousin Frank’ every two months is also untrue.”
“The entire correspondence which we have had with this man comprises a letter which we received from him on April 28, 1935, wherein he asked that the lads ‘who attended his classes’ should be permitted to join the Golden Star Brigade, and our reply, with a copy of the constitution and rules of the Brigade and a number of enrolment forms.”
“This package was sent on January 14, 1936, to ‘Edward E Brown, c/o General Post Office, Brisbane.’ It was, however, subsequently returned to us through the medium of the Returned Postal Service. The evidence of this is in the hands of our solicitor, Mr LG Coleman, 3 King’s Bench Walk, Temple, London EC4, and may be inspected by your London representative if so required.—Yours etc.,”

“(Sgd.) P. Baxter, manager.

    This letter, in conjunction with “Truth’s” revelations, would seem to effectively draw the curtain on Eric Edward Brown and his brazen attempts to shine as a Golden Star.

 

---

Eric Edward Brown, 1939

 

The Courier-Mail, Wed 12 Jul 1939 ²⁴

USED MONEY SENT AS
AGENCY FEE

    Setting up an office in Adelaide Street in April, Eric Edward Brown, 35, labourer, advertised his ability to supply farm labour. His failure to send a farm hand to John William Arthur Harper, farmer near Nambour, after £1 had been sent to cover fees and fares, resulted in his being fined £9, in default three months’ imprisonment, by Mr PG Knyvett, Acting CPM, in the Police Court yesterday.

    Brown was ordered to pay half of the fine and restitution of £1 by July 31 and the other half by August 31.

 

---

Eric Edward Brown, 1944

 

The Telegraph, Tue 21 Nov 1944 ²⁵

LABOURER GAOLED

    Eric Edward Brown, 39, labourer, charged in the Police Court today with having unlawfully assaulted a 13-year-old boy, on November 18, was sentenced to three months’ imprisonment by Mr PG Knyvett, SM.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

The Courier-Mail, Wed 22 Nov 1944 ²⁶

NEWS IN BRIEF

    “MENACE TO BOYS.”—Eric Edward Brown, 39, labourer, was sentenced to three months’ imprisonment by Mr PG Knyvett, SM, yesterday, for having assaulted a 13-year-old boy. Brown, police stated, was a menace to small boys.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Truth, Sun 26 Nov 1944 ²⁷

IS JUST INCORRIGIBLE

Eric Edward Brown, at 39 yean of age, is old enough to be more decent, but convictions for reprehensible offences teach him nothing. Last week he went to gaol again for three months.

———◦———
MENACE TO BOYS
————
Paper Seller Goes
Out Of Circulation

    “Definite menace to small boys!” was the label tagged on to Eric Edward Brown, 39-year-old Valley newspaper seller, who was, the other day, sent to gaol for three months for assaulting a 13-year-old boy, one of his assistants.

BROWN is no stranger to gaol, according to the police prosecutor (Det Senr-Sergt Buggy) who, in Brisbane Police Court last week, said that Brown had done a 12 months’ stretch in Melbourne (among others) for a similar offence.

    Defendant took the boy to the pictures on a recent Saturday afternoon, and left the show to sell papers. He asked the lad to go home and get permission of his mother to stay the night with him (Brown), so they could be up early on Sunday to sell papers.

    The boy went home to Teneriffe, but said nothing to his mother, added the prosecutor, and that night Brown took him to a Valley carnival and then to the pictures. Later, Brown booked in at a boarding house, paying 2/6 for the use of a couch, on which both slept.

    Meanwhile, the lad’s mother had reported her son missing to the police. Lad went home when he heard the police were looking for him, and told the story of his adventures with Brown.

    The prosecutor said that Brown was a married man living with his wife at Sandgate. He had had several convictions down South for this type of offence, including 12 months in Melbourne. He was a definite menace to small boys.

    Three months’ gaol was the verdict of Mr PG Knyvett, SM.

 

---

¹     The Sydney Morning Herald, Sat 5 Jul 1930, p. 12.

²     The Sydney Morning Herald, Tue 22 Jul 1930, p. 8. Emphasis added.

³     Evening News, (Sydney, NSW), Mon 28 Jul 1930, p. 8.

⁴     The Newcastle Sun, (NSW), Mon 28 Jul 1930, p. 6.

⁵     Newcastle Morning Herald and Miners’ Advocate, (NSW), Tue 29 Jul 1930, p. 4.

⁶     The Sydney Morning Herald, Tue 29 Jul 1930, p. 5.

⁷     SRNSW: NRS– [17/1497], State Penitentiary photographic description book, 4 Jun 1930-19 Sep 1930, No. 24977, p. –.

⁸     The Brisbane Courier, (Qld), Sat 14 Jan 1933 p. 21.

⁹     Daily Standard, (Brisbane, Qld), Sat 14 Jan 1933, p. 6.

¹⁰   The Telegraph, (Brisbane, Qld), Sat 14 Jan 1933, p. 4.

¹¹   The Sun, (Sydney, NSW), Sun 26 May 1935, p. 2.

¹²   Sunday Mail, (Brisbane, Qld), Sun 26 May 1935, p. 5. Emphasis in original and added.

¹³   The Courier-Mail (Brisbane, Qld), Mon 27 May 1935, p. 8. Emphasis added.

¹⁴   Morning Bulletin (Rockhampton, Qld), Mon 27 May 1935, p. 8.  Emphasis added and in original text.

¹⁵   The Central Queensland Herald (Rockhampton, Qld), Thu 30 May 1935, p. 61. Emphasis in original and added.

¹⁶   The Telegraph, (Brisbane, Qld), Sat 8 Feb 1936, p. 5. Emphasis in original and added.

¹⁷   The Courier-Mail (Brisbane, Qld), Mon 10 Feb 1936, p. 7. Emphasis added.

¹⁸   Truth, (Brisbane, Qld), Sun 2 May 1937, p. 19. Emphasis in original and added.

¹⁹   The Telegraph, (Brisbane, Qld), Sat 14 Aug 1937, p. 15.

²⁰   Sunday Mail, (Brisbane, Qld), Sun 15 Aug 1937, p. 8. Emphasis added.

²¹   Truth, (Brisbane, Qld), Sun 15 Aug 1937, p. 25. Emphasis in original and added.

²²   The Richmond River Herald and Northern Districts Advertiser, (NSW), Tue 17 Aug 1937, p. 2.

²³   Truth, (Brisbane, Qld), Sun 19 Sep 1937, p. 26. Emphasis in original and added.

²⁴   The Courier-Mail (Brisbane, Qld), Wed 12 Jul 1939, p. 5.

²⁵   The Telegraph, (Brisbane, Qld), Tue 21 Nov 1944, p. 6.

²⁶   The Courier-Mail (Brisbane, Qld), Wed 22 Nov 1944, p. 4.

²⁷   Truth, (Brisbane, Qld), Sun 26 Nov 1944, p. 15. Emphasis in original and added.

---