A woman who stole hundreds of dollars worth of goods from retailers in Capalaba has been jailed for 13 months after repeatedly loading shopping trolleys and walking out without paying, sparking concern among local businesses.
Repeated Thefts Across Redlands
Between April and June 2025, Eden Maree Wheatley, 34, carried out repeated thefts from major retailers in Capalaba, Alexandra Hills and Redbank Plains. She was sentenced on 1 July at Cleveland Magistrates Court.
Court documents revealed she loaded trolleys with electronics, nappies, groceries and a GoPro, then walked out without paying. In one case, she used a stolen bank card to purchase fast food. Her conduct was labelled in court as bold, consistent and disruptive, sometimes involving help from another person at the exits.
Breaches and Aggressive Behaviour
While on bail, Wheatley failed to meet her obligations on seven separate occasions. She did not stay at her designated address or attend required appointments. During her time in custody, she spat on a police officer, an act that led to a serious assault charge.
The court considered this behaviour a major concern, citing the risk of further offences if she were released.
Sentencing and Court Decision
Magistrate Deborah Vasta sentenced Wheatley to 13 months in custody, 12 months for theft and fraud offences, plus one month for failing to appear in court. She was credited for 36 days already spent in custody and is eligible for parole on 27 July 2025.
Wheatley, who was 14 weeks pregnant at the time of sentencing, asked to be released but was refused bail. The magistrate stated that her repeated disregard for court orders and the community could not be overlooked.
Community Impact and Probation Plan
Local businesses in Capalaba and surrounding areas expressed concern about how easily thefts were carried out in broad daylight. While no one was physically harmed, staff at the affected stores were unsettled by the frequency and scale of the offences.
Wheatley will remain under probation for three years after her release, including supervision and counselling aimed at reducing the risk of future offending.
Published 11-July-2025
Featured Photo Credit: Canva / For Illustration Purpose Only
