Woman allegedly stole from elderly hospital patients for a year

A woman who allegedly stole from patients at an outback hospital over 12-month period has been arrested.

Police allege a 30-year old woman stole personal items from elderly patients recovering from serious surgeries at the Alice Springs Hospital since November last year.

A police spokesman said one victim died shortly after the alleged offending.

Strike Force Viper officers arrested the woman at the hospital on Saturday. She was charged with seven counts of theft, 13 counts of obtaining a benefit by deception, attempting to obtain a benefit by deception and possessing cannabis.

Acting Superintendent Deanne Ward said the alleged offender was not known to the victims.

“This is horrible offending that targeted the most vulnerable members of our community,” Ms Ward said.

“Police have been investigating this for a number of days, and we believe there are more victims.

“We urge anyone who has had property stolen during a visit to the hospital, particularly in recent days, to make a police report via 131 444 or by attending their local police station.”

The woman has been remanded in custody and is due to appear before the Alice Springs Local Court on Monday.