In a case that caught public attention, a domestic worker faced legal consequences for pilfering a sentimental item from her employer’s possession and attempting a deceptive replacement to cover her tracks. The court heard that the worker, identified only as Marlina, a 39-year-old from Indonesia, was handed a jail term of two weeks on Tuesday for her actions.
Marlina had admitted to the theft of a silver wedding ring adorned with a diamond, an item belonging to her employer, which she then pawned for a sum of S$170. In an attempt to mask the theft, she acquired a ring valued at merely S$5 from an online marketplace, Shopee, placing it where the original had been kept, hoping it would go unnoticed.
The theft came to light when Marlina’s employer wished to wear the ring, only to discover the substitute. Upon being confronted, Marlina conceded to her actions, leading to a police report being filed against her.
During her sentencing, Marlina communicated through an interpreter, expressing deep regret over her actions and a desire to return to her home country at the earliest opportunity.
Additionally, the court considered another theft Marlina committed in February 2024, involving the taking of S$250 in red packets from her employer, further complicating her case.
Presiding District Judge Luke Tan highlighted Marlina’s intent to conceal the theft of the wedding ring as a factor in her sentencing. He also underlined the severity of committing theft from an employer, a crime that carries a maximum penalty of seven years imprisonment and a fine.
