An aspiring healthcare worker was given a second chance in Magistrates’ Court yesterday after she agreed to pay back more than $1,000 stolen last year from her employer.

Ceannda Barrington, 26, from Southampton, made “bad decisions in preparation for her son’s birth”, her lawyer, Bruce Swan, told the court.

Mr Swan said she had been “fully compliant and open”, and told magistrate Maria Sofianos: “I do not think you will see her again.”

Barrington apologised to Phoenix Stores, her former employer, and pledged to repay the company in full by November 15.

She told Ms Sofianos: “I am very apologetic for this situation I put myself into. It is definitely something I will never do again.”

Barrington admitted attempting to dishonestly retain a wrongful credit, knowing or believing that $309.90 would go into her bank account on September 15, 2023.

She also pleaded guilty to a further five charges of stealing cash from Phoenix on the same date as well as on September 18 and 19 last year.

The amount totalled $1,392.80, according to Audley Quallo, for the Crown, who said he had taken her previous good character and early guilty pleas into account.

Mr Quallo added that a social inquiry report recommended a conditional discharge.

Mr Swan said Barrington was a caregiver looking forward to a medical career, and suggested a range of 12 to 18 months for the discharge.

Barrington agreed to comply with all terms of probation.

Ms Sofianos noted that the charges added up to “a serious offence”.

She told the court: “However, she has expressed remorse, has apologised and in mitigation has offered restitution.”

The magistrate imposed a conditional discharge of 18 months with probation, adding: “You made a foolish decision and caused embarrassment to yourself and your family, but it does not have to define you.”

Ms Sofianos, who took into account Barrington’s youth and previous good character, said she was starting out in healthcare.

She added: “This is your opportunity to give back to the community. I look forward to you qualifying as a doctor and returning to practise on this island.

“All the best to you.”

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