(Image: The Northern Echo)
A shop worker has admitted stealing a large number of scratch cards from her employer and claiming tens of thousands of pounds in prizes.
But Lauren Robinson disputes the number of cards stolen, so the figures may have to be settled at a trial of issue.
Robinson appeared at Durham Crown Court on Monday (October 5), to face theft and fraud charges.
She is accused of stealing £66,420-worth of scratch cards from Deneburn Store, in The Grove, Consett, between May 25, 2023, and August 31, 2024.
A trial of issue may be required at Durham Crown Court to resolve the value of scratch cards stolen by a Consett shop worker and the amount of prize winnings she claimed
The fraud charge relates to claims for £42,600 in scratch-card winnings claimed between June 5, 2023, and August 31, 2024.
Robinson admitted both charges, but her counsel, Tony Davis, said the amounts are disputed by her and may have to be decided at a trial of issue, known as a Newton hearing.
Mr Davis said Robinson could not give an exact figure but admitted an amount “significantly less” than the sums stated in the charges.
He said that could significantly affect the sentencing category.
Judge Aisha Wadoodi said the defence to make its submissions by October 19, and the prosecution should respond before a further hearing on November 6 to decide whether a Newton hearing is needed.
The judge bailed Robinson, of Durham Road, Leadgate, near Consett, to return for the November 6 hearing.
A Newton hearing is a contested hearing settled by a judge when disputed facts could affect sentencing.