Mum urged
to change, for children's sake

THE MOTHER who had her two children with her as she shoplifted from Blessings Boutique has been urged to turn her life around for the children's sake.

Complainant Deidre Thorne appealed to Keisha Michelle Clarke in the District "A" Magistrates' Court yesterday to have more respect for her children and to get help and prayers.

Clarke, 27, of Four Roads, St John, was back in court yesterday to discuss the issue of compensation after pleading guilty on Thursday to stealing two dresses and a shirt valued $185 from the boutique on Wednesday, and unlawfully and maliciously wounding Thorne the same day.

Thorne said she was still receiving medical attention and the matter was adjourned until August 28.

"When you walk about doing these things, you are bringing shame and disgrace on the girls that God gave you. Try and make a turn around for them. As a mother, you need to show more respect for your children. If you can't get help, get prayer," Thorne urged Clarke.

Thorne said throughout the incident, her primary concern was for the younger child in Clarke's hand. Thorne explained that "material" was observed hanging from Clarke's bag and she kept shifting the child over it.

She said she went to the woman "gently" and asked her to see the bag. She added she grabbed at the bag but did not touch Clarke as she was concerned about the child.

After the incident, Thorne said Clarke apologised for biting her.

Magistrate Pamela Beckles said the fact Clarke stole the items in front of her children was "horrendous" and warned the mother if she did not want the children taken from her, she needed to change.

On Wednesday, prosecutor Sergeant Trenton Small said Clarke entered the City boutique with her nine-year-old and 20 month-old children, went to the children's clothing section and was seen by Thorne and other employees stealing the items. When approached, she put up a struggle during which she bit Thorne's finger.

In her defence, the woman said she stole the clothes because she did not have money and bit Thorne because the woman pulled her hair and pulled her onto the ground.