Woman pleads guilty jewellery store theft

A woman, who pleaded guilty to stealing from her former employer, had her cellphone removed when she was caught reading text messages while her charges were being read out in court. 

Salu Pelenatete Leasi pleaded guilty to charges of forging company receipts and two counts of theft as a servant for stealing gold rings from the Treasure Box company earlier this year. 

The summary of facts highlighted that the value of the stolen goods was an estimated $1400. 

But while the summary of facts were being read out during the court hearing, Justice Leiataualesa Daryl Clarke noticed the defendant looking down at her phone. 

Justice Clarke then asked her if she was reading her text messages while the charges were being read out. 

To which she replied yes. 

The Court Registrar was then instructed by Justice Clarke to remove the defendant’s cellphone, who then asked if she had understood what was being read out. 

In response she said yes. 

The defendant is accused of forging her boss' signature on the receipts and removing rings from the jewelry store in July when she was employed by the company.

The matter has been adjourned for sentencing.