Wicklow carer admits stealing money from elderly client in ‘complete breach of trust’
The Wicklow PeopleA Wicklow woman who stole money from the elderly woman she was caring for has pleaded guilty to three counts of theft at Bray District Court.
Gaatha Kalathara (23), of Apt. 6, Boghall Road, Bray, Co. Wicklow, was employed as a carer for an elderly woman in Bray and had access to the pensioner’s home three times per day. She admitted stealing a total of €105 from the woman’s purse.
In August 2025, the woman began to notice money missing from her purse. Her family installed a CCTV camera, which subsequently recorded Ms Kalathara taking €15 from the victim’s purse. She was later arrested and made admissions to stealing €105 in total.
Counsel for the defence, Brendan Maloney BL, described Ms Kalathara’s actions as “a complete breach of trust”.
The court heard that Ms Kalathara, an Indian national, came to Ireland in September 2024 to “advance herself”. She holds a degree in zoology from a university in India and has since been studying for her Master’s degree while living in Ireland.
The court was told that she is one of two children and that her father in India is suffering from serious health issues. It was also heard that Ms Kalathara is in debt, owing €4,800 in student loans.
Ms Kalathara has no previous convictions. Compensation of €105 was handed into court to repay the victim.
Judge David Kennedy adjourned the matter to January 5, 2026, for the preparation of a probation report.