Woman (41) faces series of charges of stealing from Mayo hospital patients

A BALLYCROY woman has been remanded on bail after appearing before Judge Vincent Deane at Castlebar District Court on Wednesday, April 1, charged with the theft of more than €3,000 from patients at Mayo University Hospital.

Helen Deane (41), Knockmoyleen, Ballycroy, made no reply to any of the charges when they were put to her by Detective Garda Leo Heaney of Castlebar Garda Station.

Garda Heaney told the court he had arrested Deane at 9.28 a.m. that morning for the purpose of charging her before the court. Deane faces five charges in total.

She is accused of stealing €1,220 in cash from a patient at the hospital on April 14, 2025, and €289 in cash from another patient on June 2, 2025. On July 8, 2025, she is alleged to have stolen a handbag valued at €60 and €40 in cash.

On August 6, 2025, she is accused of stealing €250 from a patient in the hospital's A&E department, and between August 14 and 15, 2025, of stealing €1,300 in cash.

All alleged offences took place at Mayo University Hospital.

The Director of Public Prosecutions has consented to the matter proceeding on indictment.

Deane was remanded on her own bond of €100. Defence solicitor Eanya Egan appeared for Deane and indicated she would apply for legal aid at a later date, reserving her position in that regard.

The matter returns to Castlebar District Court on May 6 for plea, with the book of evidence to be served at that hearing ahead of the case proceeding to Castlebar Circuit Court.

* Funded by the Courts Reporting Scheme.