Carer denies theft claims
A CARER is facing allegations he stole cash from an “extremely vulnerable” man on 16 separate occasions.
Anthony Marrs, of Wylam View, Winlaton, Gateshead, is accused of abusing a position of trust and also of fraudulently using the victim’s bank card.
In total, it’s alleged the 33-yearold stole around £750 from the man between January and April 2016.
Marrs appeared at Newcastle Magistrates’ Court, where he entered not guilty pleas to one count of fraud and 16 of theft by finding.
James Long, prosecuting, said Marrs is suspected of committing the offences at the vulnerable man’s home in Newcastle.
He also said, because the charges involved an alleged abuse of trust, the case should be sent to the crown court.
Mr Long said: “The prosecution would say this is not suitable for summary trial.
“It’s an alleged abuse of trust concerning an extremely vulnerable person and it goes over some time.”
Mark Humble, defending, agreed the case should probably be heard at the crown court.
During the brief hearing, Marrs spoke only to confirm his name, date of birth and address and to entering his not guilty pleas.
Declining jurisdiction, District Judge Kathryn Meek said: “You’re charged with a large number of offences.
“All of them can be tried either here or at the crown court.
“You should be aware that, if tried here and you were convicted, the magistrates can still commit you to the crown court for sentence.”
The judge added: “I think, taking into account the nature of the relationship between the defendant and the injured party, the alleged abuse of position and the amount of time it goes on, this would be better tried at the crown court.”
Marrs was released on conditional bail to next appear at Newcastle Crown Court on April 4.