UPDATE: A 36-year-old woman from Orange has narrowly avoided jail time after being sentenced for a series of shoplifting offenses driven by her drug addiction. Kelly Gerken, from McLachlan Street, was ordered to complete 100 hours of community service and stay out of trouble until Christmas next year.
This urgent ruling was delivered during a court appearance on September 25, 2025, at the Orange Local Court, where Gerken faced nine counts of shoplifting, possession of suspected stolen goods, and multiple driving offenses. Her criminal activities spanned from March to May 2025, leading authorities to express serious concern over her escalating behavior.
Gerken’s pattern of theft included stealing high-value items such as perfume, alcohol, and clothing, with total thefts amounting to hundreds of dollars. In a notable incident on May 27, 2025, she attempted to steal fragrance packs valued at $299.98 from Chemist Warehouse, only to be apprehended by a vigilant security guard.
During the hearing, Gerken appeared via an audio-visual link, having spent nearly four months in custody prior to her sentencing. Her solicitor, Mason Manwaring, highlighted Gerken’s struggles with addiction and her supportive family, who have arranged for her rehabilitation. “Her prospects of rehabilitation are very good,” he stated.
Authorities revealed shocking details of Gerken’s criminal activities, including a theft of $151 worth of alcohol from Dan Murphy’s on multiple occasions. Gerken’s offenses culminated in her being caught with stolen goods, including a $129.99 Yves Saint Laurent perfume, during a police search following her traffic violations.
Magistrate Gary Wilson emphasized the seriousness of Gerken’s actions, describing her offenses as “unsophisticated,” and noted that she made no effort to disguise her thefts. Gerken was also convicted for driving while disqualified, resulting in a six-month license disqualification.
The court’s decision reflects a growing concern about the impact of drug addiction on criminal behavior, particularly as Gerken’s actions not only endanger herself but also affect local businesses in Orange. The community is now watching closely to see if Gerken can stay on the right path and fulfill the conditions of her sentence.
As Gerken embarks on her community service and rehabilitation journey, the local community hopes for a positive outcome. This case serves as a reminder of the urgent need for effective support systems for individuals grappling with addiction and the cycle of crime it often perpetuates.
Authorities will continue to monitor Gerken’s compliance with her community service and rehabilitation commitments, making this an ongoing story to follow. As she steps into this next chapter, the hope is that she can turn her life around and avoid further legal troubles.
