Elderly Woman Faces Court Over Alleged Plant Theft Spree in Lake Macquarie
Police have charged a 73-year-old woman with multiple counts of stealing plants after an investigation into a series of alleged thefts from a commercial garden in Lake Macquarie. The woman was issued a notice to attend Belmont Local Court next month, facing eight charges related to the incidents.
CCTV Footage Captures Alleged Night-Time Raids
Lake Macquarie police were alerted to the alleged thefts after maintenance workers for a business on the Pacific Highway in Charlestown returned from the Christmas break to find numerous holes in the outdoor gardens. A review of CCTV footage reportedly revealed a person stealing plants under the cover of night on eight separate occasions between December 26 and January 20.
In one image from the footage, the individual appeared to be wearing a shirt with the phrase 'no rest for the wicked' printed on it. Officers attended a home in Kotara South on January 23 after identifying the woman from the CCTV and spoke with her about the allegations.
Plants Recovered and Allegedly Listed for Sale Online
Following the police interview, a number of the stolen plants were returned to the garden site in the back of a police paddy wagon. Authorities confirmed that the woman had been assisting with inquiries before being formally charged.
A member of the property's maintenance team told the Newcastle Herald that the allegedly stolen plants were later discovered for sale on Facebook Marketplace, adding an unexpected twist to the case. It is understood that the cost to re-establish the damaged gardens exceeded $5000, highlighting the financial impact of the alleged crimes.
Ongoing Police Investigation and Community Impact
The charges underscore the seriousness with which authorities are treating property crimes, even those involving seemingly minor items like plants. The case has drawn attention to garden security and the broader issue of theft from commercial and public spaces in the region.
Police have not released further details about the woman's identity or potential motives, but the incident serves as a reminder for businesses to review their security measures. The community is encouraged to report any suspicious activity to local authorities to help prevent similar occurrences in the future.
