THE trial of the former Ammanford sub-postmistress accused of using stolen money has been halted suddenly.
Lorraine Johnson, aged 53, of 229 Llandeilo Road, Llandybie, will face a fresh trial as soon as it can be organised.
Johnson stands accused of using criminal property between November 2005 and November 2007. She denies the charge.
Johnson went on trial at Swansea Crown Court this week, but on Thursday Judge Paul Thomas was told that difficulties had arisen.
Onememberof the jury fell ill and was unable to continue, while a second realised she knew Johnson’s sister-in-law.
Judge Thomas said he was not prepared to continue the trial with only ten members of the jury and brought the proceedings to an end. Johnson was granted bail.
Johnson’s husband, Anthony Stewart Johnson, aged 62, has already admitted forgery and theft.
The offences he has admitted include stealing £139,976.90p from Chelliah Yoganathan, who runs a care home in Llanelli, between December 2005, and November 2007.
Hehas also admitted an offence of using criminal property – the money – and three offences of forging cheque stubs.
He will be sentenced after his wife’s trial.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article