North Broward Hospital employee accused of stealing from patient

Deputies: Jewelry, cash stolen from victim older than 65

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. – An employee at North Broward Hospital is facing multiple theft charges after she stole a necklace and cash from a patient, deputies said.

According to the arrest report, Ina Thompson, 54, stole a necklace valued at $1,100 and $50 in cash from Ruth Cousin on Aug. 22.

A witness told detectives she saw Thompson help Cousin to the bathroom. While Cousin was inside the bathroom, the witness said the privacy curtain was only partially closed, and she could see Thompson bending down and heard her rummaging through the victim's personal belongings.

Detectives said Thompson admitted to stealing the items and pawning the necklace for money. Detectives obtained the bill of sale from National Gold Traders, which had Thompson's signature and fingerprint.

Detectives said Thompson told them she didn't know why she stole the items and acknowledged that she knew the patient was older than 65.


About the Author:

Amanda Batchelor is the Digital Executive Producer for Local10.com.