ABSTRACT
Every public outrage, every theft, robbery or depredation, every obstruction, nuisance, or breach of cleanliness, and every imposition or overcharge in articles under the cognizance of the police act, are deemed public offences, and are prosecuted by the inspectors of the wards [under the authority of the police judge]. The examination of the offender and witnesses are in this [Edinburgh police] court taken instanter, and viva voce; and the sentence pronounced is immediately executed. 1
