In a shocking case heard at Croydon Crown Court, Leah Kember, a long-serving employee of Mecca Bingo in Morden, was found guilty of embezzling more than £100,000 from her employer over the course of a year. The 41-year-old, who worked as an office controller at Mecca Bingo Rosehill for two decades, diverted a staggering £113,851.50 into her personal bank account.

Kember’s role involved cashing up at the end of each session, providing her with the opportunity to alter records undetected. The court heard that she manipulated an online game to favour the Rosehill site and redirected the funds into her account, exploiting her position of trust within the company.

During the trial, Kember admitted to the offences, attributing her actions to mental health struggles exacerbated by personal losses, including the death of her father. She acknowledged feeling “embarrassed, disgusted, and apologetic” for her actions, which she explained were driven by a gambling addiction.

Waqar Ahmed, representing Kember, shed light on her circumstances, detailing how her partner’s job loss and her own mental health issues led to a spiral of gambling addiction. Desperate to address her mounting debts, she resorted to further gambling in a bid to recoup losses, perpetuating a destructive cycle.

Despite her remorse and acknowledgement of responsibility, Kember’s actions have had significant repercussions. The prosecution sought restitution of the full amount embezzled, but as the money was primarily used for gambling rather than personal gain, Kember was spared the obligation to repay it.

In his sentencing, Judge Antony Dunne emphasized the gravity of Kember’s actions, highlighting the devastating consequences of her gambling addiction. While Kember avoided immediate incarceration, she received a two-year suspended sentence and was ordered to undertake unpaid work requirements.

The case serves as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of gambling addiction and the importance of addressing mental health issues. It also underscores the need for vigilance and robust measures to prevent financial misconduct, particularly in positions of trust within organizations.

As Kember begins her journey towards rehabilitation, Mecca Bingo and the wider community are left to grapple with the aftermath of this troubling saga, reflecting on the urgent need for support and intervention for those battling addiction.