A woman, who was accused of stealing two cases of toothpaste and one deodorant valued at $33.10, screamed with joy outside the Supreme Court yesterday.
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Her celebration followed a not guilty verdict delivered by Justice Elizabeth Aitken in the Supreme Court.
Georgina Brown, 25, of Vaitele and Vaimoso, was employed by McKenzie’s Shop at Pesega where the allegations stemmed from.
The alleged theft apparently occurred on 15 August 2014 at the shop.
In her ruling, Justice Aitken said the prosecution failed to provide the evidence to prove the charge against the defendant.
She said there was no witness who appeared in Court that saw Mrs. Brown steal the items she was accused of taking.
Yesterday’s ruling was Justice Aitken’s first ruling since she was sworn in by the Head of State, His Highness Tui Atua Tupua Tamasese Efi, two weeks ago.
Outside the Court, an overwhelmed Mrs. Brown told the Weekend Observer she was “so happy” with the decision by Justice Aitken.
“Justice has been delivered,” she said. “I was assaulted and falsely accused when I didn’t do anything wrong.”
The defendant expressed gratitude to Justice Aitken and the Supreme Court for “righteous decision.”
She also thanked her defence lawyer, Iuni Sapolu, for being strong and courageous in proving what she described as a “ridiculous” allegation against her.
“These charges can take people to prison but I’m thankful to God for showing the truth.”
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