VAGRANCY ACT 1824

The Act is for the punishment of idle and disorderly persons, rogues and vagabonds.  Section 1 states that former provisions made as to vagrants shall be repealed, exempt as to offences committed before the passing of this Act.  Section 3 sets out how idle and disorderly persons committing certain offences are to be punished.  Section 4 lists the offences, offences include a person wilfully exposing his person to insult any female.  Section 5 sets out who shall be deemed incorrigible rogues.  Section 6 provides that any person may apprehend offenders and addresses constables neglecting their duty.  Section 7 provides that Justices may issue a warrant to apprehend suspected persons.  Section 8 sets out when it is lawful for vagrants to be searched and trucks, bundles etc. to be inspected and also provides that money and effects found upon vagrants applied towards expense of apprehending and maintaining them.  Section 10 provides that sessions may detain and keep to hard labour and punish by whipping rogues and vagabonds and incorrigible rogues.  Section 11 applies to officers neglecting their duties, provisions relate to penalty, distress and imprisonment.