Woman pleads guilty to theft

A fleet-footed female thief was taken into police custody in connection with another investigation after appearing in court today.

The 52-year-old, Patricia Elizabeth Simmons, who was recorded as having no fixed place of abode, appeared before Magistrate Douglas Frederick this morning and admitted to stealing $200 belonging to Hartley Forde on May 1.

She reportedly went begging for money when the crime was committed.

According to Sergeant Vernon Waithe Forde was inside his home when he heard a female voice in his verandah asking for money. He went outside and while approaching the woman she reached for his pocket but he brushed it away. During that process however $700, which he had in his pocket, fell out.

Simmons snatched $200 of the amount and fled. Neighbours gave chase and tried to stop her but she got away. She was seen the following day in Nelson Street and arrested. She told police that she used the money to buy dope and paid rent for another woman.

Before the District ‘A’ Magistrates’ Court today Simmons admitted that she has a drug problem. She also revealed that she had already received three opportunities at Marina House.

Magistrate Douglas ordered that Forde be compensated. A woman at whose home Simmons said she resides paid the money on her behalf.

The magistrate also remanded her to the Psychiatric Hospital where a report will be prepared on her suitability for drug rehabilitation. However, that process was delayed as the prosecutor revealed that officers wanted the convicted thief in connection to another investigation.

She was released into their custody and is expected to reappear before Magistrate Frederick tomorrow, May 5.