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A 47-year-old former financial assistant at a private company collapsed in court yesterday, 11 March, after pleading guilty to misappropriating RM677,629 in company funds
According to the New Straits Times, the woman was charged in two Sessions Courts in George Town, Penang, where she admitted to four counts of criminal breach of trust (CBT) involving losses totalling RM677,629.50.
The accused, Lee Lay Peng, pleaded guilty to three CBT charges amounting to RM457,744.50, admitting that she had used the funds for personal purposes after being entrusted with them.
She allegedly committed the offences at Bold Integrated Service Sdn Bhd, Metro Avenue, Lintang Hajjah Rehmah, Jelutong between June 2017 and December 2019.
Under Section 408 of the Penal Code, she faces up to 14 years in prison and a fine upon conviction.
Lee Lay Peng appearing at the George Town Sessions Court yesterday, 11 March.
Image via New Straits TimesIn a separate court proceeding, Lee collapsed after pleading guilty to another CBT charge involving RM219,885
She had to be supported by two female police officers after fainting in court.
The accused admitted to committing the offence at the same company between January and April 2020.
During mitigation, Lee said she had discussed resolving the matter with the company and intended to repay the money she had taken.
"I am trying to find the money to repay it. I am not running away from the mistake I made. I truly regret what I have done and ask for time and an opportunity to resolve this matter," she said.
Lee also told the court that she is a single mother caring for two children aged 17 and 18, and that she suffers from depression.
She added that she had cooperated with the police throughout the investigation.
After hearing her plea for leniency, the courts allowed bail of RM10,000 and RM8,000 for the respective cases.
