Art thief stole exhibit because it reminded her of her grandma

The Lismore court heard the “opportunistic” theft had led to a “profound effect” on the Northern Rivers art gallery.

The court heard the incident had a “profound effect” on the regional art gallery. ​

A Ballina woman claimed she stole a gallery exhibit because it reminded her of her late grandmother, a Lismore court has heard.

Kerry Christine Moran, 63, fronted Lismore Local Court on Monday June 5, charged with one count of larceny.

The court heard the matter related to a visit to Lismore Regional Art Gallery, where upon seeing a lamp on display, she “secreted” the item, when no staff members were present.

Ms Moran pleaded guilty as her Aboriginal Legal Service solicitor said she was “very remorseful” of the crime.

“She is highly anxious of what is going to come of this,” she said.

“She handed back the item, co-operated with police and very embarrassed of this offence.”

She added that on the day of the offence, Moran had over-medicated herself and that she required the assistance of a support worker.

Magistrate Jeff Linden said the crime was “opportunistic” but had repercussions on the gallery.

“It’s had somewhat of a profound effect on the art gallery,” he said.

“They’ve needed to put on additional staff, it’s posed possible problems with future exhibitions.”

The court also heard Moran had previously faced numerous shoplifting charges in both Byron Bay and Ballina.

Given that, Magistrate Linden convicted Moran.

“I understand the difficulties she may have but there’s no excuse for this,” he said.

She was ordered to undertake a community correctional order for 18 months.

The order will expire on January 4, 2023.