Former Port Lincoln carer Terresa Murray avoids jail after stealing jewellery and cash from clients

A former Port Lincoln home care worker has avoided jail after she stole thousands of dollars of jewellery from her vulnerable clients.

A former Port Lincoln home care worker has avoided jail after she stole jewellery and cash from her elderly and vulnerable clients.

Terresa Michelle Murray, 53, appeared in the Port Lincoln Magistrates Court on Tuesday after pleading guilty to five counts of aggravated theft and one count of unlawful possession.

Murray was working as a carer for elderly and vulnerable clients when she abused her position of trust to steal cash and jewellery, including rings and necklaces, in 2023.

The items were valued at up to $30,000.

Murray was arrested on November 5, 2023 for theft in relation to property suspected to have been stolen while she was working as an aged care worker in Port Lincoln.

Terresa Murray avoided jail for multiple counts of theft. Photo: File

Magistrate Louise Kleinig sentenced Murray to six months jail, which was suspended on a $750, 18-month good behaviour bond.

In a statement provided to the Advertiser Eyre and Far North Local Health Network (EFNLHN) said they have been in contact with their clients and families since becoming aware of the charges.

“We wrote and phoned consumers to notify them and ask if they had any concerns,” they said.

“We supported our clients and their families, including encouraging those with concerns to contact police, and we also liaised with SAPOL.”

Murray was suspended on November 6, 2023 and resigned effective November 28, 2023.

“EFNLHN reported the incidents to the Aged Care Safety and Quality Commission, as required, and we have notified the Commission of the outcome of the case and sentencing,” they said.

“We have standard protocols in place that are enacted whenever a complaint about a staff member is made.”