Georgetown, Guyana – A former clerk of the St. Joseph Mercy Hospital has been charged with larceny after allegedly stealing over $600,000 from her workplace. Toni Parris, a 24-year-old hairdresser and single mother of two, appeared before Acting Chief Magistrate Faith McGusty at the Georgetown Magistrate’s Court on Friday to face the charge.
The prosecution alleges that on November 27, 2024, Parris stole $643,060 in cash while employed as a clerk at the hospital located on Parade Street, Kingston. Parris has pleaded not guilty to the charge.
During the court hearing, the prosecutor opposed bail, citing the seriousness of the offense and claiming that Parris failed to follow standard procedures for depositing funds into the hospital’s vault at the end of her shift. It was further alleged that financial reports for transactions involving 16 patients on the day in question were not submitted by Parris.
The defense countered these claims by stating that Parris had followed all protocols and deposited the funds as required. Her attorney also pointed out that surveillance cameras were installed in her workstation area but were reportedly non-functional at the time of the alleged theft. The lawyer emphasized that Parris poses no flight risk and is now working as a hairdresser to support her two young children after being dismissed from her hospital job in December 2024.
After considering arguments from both sides, Magistrate McGusty granted bail in the sum of $75,000 and adjourned the matter until May 9 for continuation.
This case has drawn public attention due to its implications for workplace security and accountability measures in Guyana’s healthcare sector. As investigations continue, Parris maintains her innocence while facing legal scrutiny over the missing funds.
