Careworker withdrew £3000 from elderly client's account

Robyn Barr (21), of Arran Avenue, Ballymena, appeared at the town’s Magistrates Court on Thursday and admitted a charge of fraud by false representation.

The charge states that on July 8 this year Barr dishonestly made a false representation that she had permission from the woman to present a cheque withdrawing £3,000 with the intention of making a gain for herself and cause a loss to the woman.

Defence barrister Aaron Thompson said his client had been a carer but lost her employment in the “breach of trust” case.

The defendant did not speak in court during her brief appearance.

A prosecutor has yet to outline the full details of the case to a judge.

District Judge Peter King asked for a pre-sentence report to be prepared and adjourned the case until January.

He said: “Given the nature of the allegations and the amount of money, prison is a real prospect in this case.”