Larne Woman Sentenced for Charity Box Theft and Other Offences
Stephanie Molly McKee, 27, of Priory Gardens in Larne, stole cash from an Air Ambulance charity box at Lusty's Centra store. The incident occurred at 7.15am on May 16, 2024. A member of the public found the empty box on nearby Kent Avenue. CCTV footage captured McKee taking the box, which contained an estimated £30 to £40. She admitted to police that she appeared in the footage but said she could not recall the event.
On November 8, 2023, McKee failed to pay a £71 taxi fare. The taxi had transported her from Hydebank Prison near Belfast to Donaghadee, then to Larne to attend a family member's wake. She left the taxi in Larne, promising to return with payment, but did not.
McKee also stole a perfume set valued at £75 from a pharmacy in Larne on December 3, 2024.
Ballymena Magistrates' Court heard that McKee has a criminal record. Her defence barrister noted family drug issues and stated that a rehabilitation group offered her support to address her past problems.
Deputy District Judge Noel Dunlop sentenced McKee to one year in prison, suspended for two years.