‘Friendly’ woman charged in $9-million fraud
MONTEGO BAY, St James — A former employee of a financial institution in this western city who allegedly befriended clients and capitalised on their aversion to joining lines so as to fleece them of about $9 million, had her bail extended when she appeared in court on Tuesday.
Carla Clarke appeared before St James Parish Court charged with eight counts of simple larceny, 15 counts of fraudulent conversion, and breaches of The Cybercrimes Act. She is being represented by attorney-at-law Martyn Thomas.
Clarke allegedly transferred millions in client funds into her personal account and those of her relatives.
According to court documents, the fraud occurred between 2022 and 2023 during Clarke’s tenure at the organisation. She is said to have formed strong interpersonal relationships with a number of customers during the period.
These clients granted her access to their accounts and funds because she provided them with the convenience of bypassing queues by accepting money for deposit directly into their accounts.
It is further alleged that Clarke deposited a portion of the funds into the accounts of some customers while using the remainder to pay off loans for other customers, without their knowledge. When the latter group of customers attempted to settle their loans, she pocketed the money.
The court was also told that, in addition to keeping some of the money for herself, Clarke transferred some of it to accounts owned by family members.
The police were contacted about the fraud and, following investigations, Clarke was arrested and charged.
During Tuesday’s hearing the court was told that the parties are contemplating mediation; however, attorney Thomas requested a one-month extension to formalise his client’s mediation agreement.
“Miss Clarke, your bail is extended for you to return to this court on April 3,” presiding judge Kaysha Grant-Pryce told the accused.
Addressing Thomas, the judge continued, “Counsel, on that date I wish to see this agreement produced in writing; the complainants are interested in their monies back.”
