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Woman jailed for theft and credit card fraud
Posted: 31 January 2012 1406 hrs
Peruvian national Maria Elena Tello Espinoza was sentenced to jail for 15 months for stealing and cheating with stolen credit cards. -- PHOTO: SINGAPORE POLICE FORCE
Forty-five-year-old Maria Elena Tello Espinoza made away with more than S$8,800 in cash and valuables between March and April last year.
She pleaded guilty to two counts of theft and two of cheating.
The court heard that Maria and a 51-year-old Peruvian man - who is still at large - targeted prime shopping districts, including Bugis Junction and The Central (at Eu Tong Seng Street).
She stole handbags from a food court and Starbucks outlet while her victims were busy.
She then concealed the stolen bags with her own before leaving the premises, with her accomplice keeping a lookout.
Her loot included a laptop, a S$1,000 Gucci handbag, a bible, as well as cash.
Investigations revealed Maria also made fraudulent purchases with stolen credit cards during the same period.
She deceived an electronics and jewellery store into accepting payment for an iPad and two gold chains worth S$2,050.
The items were not recovered.
Pleading for leniency, Maria told the court she was remorseful and was willing to make restitution.
- CNA/cc
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