Bank worker accused of theft of £1.3m
A FORMER bank worker has appeared in court accused of stealing more than £1.3m from her employers.
Laura Matthews allegedly pocketed the cash over a six-year period between 2013 and 2019.
A court heard that the 31-year-old was suspected of transferring the money into her own account from Virgin Money PLC, who she worked for at the time.
In total, prosecutors claimed she stole £1,309,719.67 from the bank.
Matthews is also accused of concealing or transferring criminal property by “moving the funds between her account and subsequently spending them”.
Matthews, of Rosecroft, in Pelton County Durham, appeared before North Tyneside Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday to face one count each of theft by employee and concealing or transferring criminal property.
She spoke only to confirm her name, date of birth and address and to confirm she would be withholding her plea to both charges.
Prosecutor Gurjot Kaur said the offences allegedly happened in Newcastle between May 15, 2013 and July 19, 2019.
She added: “Because of the amount, this is not suitable for summary trial.”
Agreeing that Matthews should be sent to the crown court, District Judge Paul Currer said: “You’re charged with very serious offences given the amount of money involved.
“It’s also an alleged breach of trust because you were working for Virgin Money at the time.
“You will be sent to Newcastle Crown Court on April 7 at 10am. If you fail to attend on that date and time, you commit and offence, for which you could be prosecuted.
“It’s also important you keep in touch with your solicitors with your instructions.”