Morris v CW Martin and Sons Ltd

Facts

A fur was sent to the defendants for cleaning. An employee to whom they entrusted it stole it.

Issue

Were the defendants liable for the employee's theft?

Held

Yes. They had entrusted the fur to him, so the theft was committed in the course of his employment.

Principle

An employer who entrusts goods to an employee is liable if the employee steals them.

Why it matters

It shows vicarious liability for deliberate wrongs.

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