AN AMERICAN woman who was extradited from the United States to Northern Ireland appeared in Downpatrick Courthouse today.
Marianne Smyth is facing charges of theft and fraud against two couples and two individuals totalling around £130,000 (€154,650).
The 54-year-old allegedly carried out the cons in Northern Ireland between March 2008 and October 2010, according to police.
She is facing charges of four counts of theft and four counts of committing fraud by abusing a position of trust.
Smyth, with an address on the Spa Road in Ballynahinch Downpatrick, Co Down, was arrested in February 2024.
Dressed in a blue jacket and pattern top, and with slicked back greying hair and glasses, Smyth appeared today by video link.
Defence solicitor Paul Dougan confirmed Smyth has been in custody since her arrest.
The court heard that the charges allege Smyth had a responsibility to safeguard the financial interests of the complainants which she dishonestly abused.
It’s claimed she failed to invest their money as agreed – for self-gain or another or to cause a loss.
Quizzed if Smyth was aware of the eight charges against her, she replied: “I am.”
She complied with a Preliminary Enquiry being carried out which will put the case to the Crown Court.
The offences occurred in Northern Ireland between March 2008 and October 2010, according to the PSNI ahead of Smyth’s court appearances.
Smyth previously appeared before a Co Down court at the start of the month.
On her extradition, Sergeant Davey from the International Policing Unit said the team are working closely with partners in the USA.
Extradition
Sergeant Davey said: “This demonstrates our continued and effective working with our international partners to track down wanted persons and bring offenders to justice.
“In this case we worked closely with the United States Department of Justice and US Law Enforcement to locate, arrest and extradite this suspect.
“We appreciate the continued support of partners in the USA in assisting the Police Service of Northern Ireland in locating offenders.
“Our message is clear to anyone who has left Northern Ireland to avoid arrest or the consequences of their actions.
“We will relentlessly pursue those that are trying to delay or deny justice to victims of crime.”
Judge Sean O’Hare confirmed a date is yet to be fixed for the arraignment.