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| The case is being heard at Kowloon City Court |
In a surprise move, the duty lawyer handling the case of a Filipina domestic helper accused of stealing Octopus money and supermarket coupons from her employer opted out yesterday, Thursday, over apparent differences on how the defence should proceed.
Maricel G. Noveda,
36, had earlier indicated she was ready to enter a plea, but appeared to change
her mind.
After her lawyer
informed the court of his intention to withdraw from the case, Kowloon City
Deputy Magistrate Cheng Lim-chi adjourned the case for mention on November 12.
The Filipina was
advised to secure another counsel for her next court appearance.
According to the
amended charge sheet, Noveda is accused of having stolen “a chose in action” (or
an intangible property) related to her having used an Octopus Card belonging to
her employer Chan Yuk to purchase items worth HK$35,298.10 without authorization.
The alleged offences
were said to have been committed between Nov 1, 2025 and Jan. 13, 2026.
In the second
charge of theft, Noveda is accused of having stolen supermarket coupons worth
HK$15,000, also from Chan, with the alleged offences having been committed
between Dec 1, 2025 and Jan. 31, 2026.
No plea was taken
from Noveda and her HK$1,000 was extended until her next court appearance.
