On 11th August 1826 at St Sepulchre, Middlesex, when Joseph was 19 years of age, he was convicted of stealing a mare, the property of David Elliott.
Joseph was found guilty and sentenced to death at the Old Bailey Courthouse, London. (Harsh punishments were given during the early years in England).
The prosecutor recommended mercy on account of Joseph's age, believing him to have been of good character as he had no prior convictions.
Date of trial was 26 September 1826. Joseph's sentence was commuted to life and transportation to the colonies, on the ship "Manilius", departing England 22 October 1826.