Woman steals ice cream money to gamble

GRACE MARTIN who sold ice cream, confessed to a magistrate yesterday that so addicted she was to gambling, she stole proceeds from sales at Munch King, Marabella.

Martin pleaded guilty before senior magistrate Jo-Anne Connor in the San Fernando magistrates’ court who ordered her to repay the $5,745. She was also ordered to pay a fine of $2,500 or serve four months in jail.

Police prosecutor Cleyon Seedan told Connor that, on March 20, Martin worked at Munch King and left after the close of business. Missing from the cash register was $5,745 which represented ice cream sales from March 16 to March 20. PC Quiznel Mahabir investigated and arrested Martin who confessed, “Boss ah real frustrated. I will put it back.”

An attorney on Martin’s behalf, told Connor that from being a recreational gambler, Martin became a chronic one.

“She needs professional help. I have contacted Wayne Lee of the Gambling Anonymous group, to see if they can help her. She is willing to pay the money back.”

Connor ordered Martin to pay the fine and the compensation in two months.