MONTEGO BAY, St James — A motor vehicle theft triggered a wider investigation into fraudulent use of bank cards, a matter which has ended up before the St James Parish Court.

Selena Simpson of Bog Walk, Linstead in St Catherine, appeared before Judge Kaysha Grant-Pryce on Wednesday, when she pleaded guilty with explanation to receiving stolen goods, simple larceny, unauthorised access to computer data, and engaging in transactions involving criminal property.

According to court documents, the matter began on February 13, when a complainant reported that her son’s motor vehicle had been stolen in Bogue Heights, Montego Bay, St James. She told investigators that she frequently travels in that vehicle and regularly left personal belongings inside, including bank cards, cash, and identification card.

On the same day, between 3:00 pm and 4:00 pm, the complainant received multiple email alerts indicating that her NCB Visa debit card was being used for several supermarket transactions. Records show purchases were attempted and completed at two separate locations — two transactions in Westmoreland and two in St Catherine, although one transaction in St Catherine was declined. Another attempt was also declined after the card was blocked.

A report was made, and investigators later obtained video footage from the supermarkets. The footage reportedly showed Simpson using a card at times that matched the transaction records on the merchants’ receipts.

Simpson was subsequently apprehended and found in possession of three debit cards. The complainant later identified one of the cards as hers.

Simpson was arrested and formally charged in connection with the incident.

During the proceedings, the investigating officer told the court that, at this time, they cannot say whether Simpson has any connection to the stolen vehicle.

When given the opportunity to respond, Simpson told the court that she had found a bag on the road and it appeared to have fallen from a vehicle. She said the bag containing three debit cards, one of which she used at supermarkets. She stated that she intended to repay the money.

“You can’t do the crime and then determine how it comes to an end. The court has to make a determination as to how it will handle this matter,” Judge Grant-Pryce told Simpson.

The court ordered a social enquiry report and extended Simpson’s bail. She is scheduled to be sentenced on May 22.