FDH fined for stealing from Uniqlo

Uniqlo branch in Causeway Bay

A 59-year-old Filipino domestic worker was fined $1,200 after she was caught stealing from a popular clothing store in Causeway Bay.

Mercedes C.O., who has had only two employers in her 31 years here in HK, admitted to stealing one pair of blue jeans and black jacket from the Uniqlo branch on the ground floor of Lee Theatre Plaza along Percival Street.

“Yes, aminado po ako (Yes, I admit it),” Mercedes told Eastern Presiding Magistrate Peter Law on November 5.

The prosecution said the incident happened at around 11:45 a.m. on October 21 when a security guard saw the defendant take the blue jeans and jacket and put them on her arm.

She then covered the two items with her own jacket before walking out of the store without paying. The alarm sounded and the guard ran after the helper.

“Pasensya. Pasensya sa aking pagkakamali,” Mercedes told the police after she was arrested at around 12:27 p.m. She did not say if she only forgot to pay for the jeans and jacket.

Her lawyer said that Mercedes earns more than $4,400 “but sends almost $4,000 home” for her daughter, who is taking up a course in hotel and restaurant management.

“Her daughter’s education is so expensive,” the lawyer said.

“She stole the items out of greed and for her own use. She’s very remorseful and promises not to offend again,” he added.

Judge Law said Mercedes’ bail of $700 would be deducted from her $1,200 fine while she would have two months to pay the remaining balance.