Generations’ Maggie speaks out about shoplifting headache

Benedict was arrested in December 2013 at Checkers in Cresta mall, Johannesburg, for allegedly stealing headache tablets worth R17.49c.

She released a statement regarding her alleged crime via her facebook and twitter accounts on Friday evening, to set the record straight.

“I am innocent of this alleged crime and there was no basis for the arrest. Every item in my possession was paid for including the tablets I’d purchased weeks earlier that were still unopened,” said Benedict.

The talented actress who plays the role of Akhona on the popular soapie said she found it interesting that another customer’s packages set off the security system and she was allowed to go without a search. Benedict was allegedly stopped when the security system went off as she passed through.

“I could not provide a receipt because I’m blessed to have R17.49c not be an expenditure I need to keep track of,” she said.

According to Benedict, Checkers could not provide proof as the camera covering the relevant aisle did not work at the time of the alleged crime being committed.

Benedict said that State has offered her a diversion, an offer that she has declined.

“That means in principal that you admit to the allegations against you, look appropriately remorseful and the whole thing goes away. This would be the easiest and most cost effective manner in which to get this matter to finality. So basically it’s a lie that gets me out of this. I’m not sleeping as it is, I don’t see lying to an officer of the law remedying that,” she said.

Benedict also took a stab at Checkers and the State saying her attorney said that often when a crime is based upon loss of such nominal value and the case is heavily reliant on circumstantial evidence, the State will dismiss it.

“Checkers can intervene and elect not to proceed with the further participation of the prosecution. Neither has happened,” said Bendedict.

“I guess it is far easier to ‘Make An Example Of That Actress’ than it is to admit that perhaps, just perhaps, Checkers’ Anti‐Theft machines and cameras might need a service.”

The actress ended her statement by taking another stab at the shopping centre in the form of a sarcastic plea to all women.

“To every woman who carries her life in her handbag like I do, open everything in it RIGHT NOW! Don’t wait until you need that item to lift the tab, tear the perforated seal or pop the blister pack. That unopened snack bar you keep for emergencies might cost you far more than the price on the shelf,” she concluded.

Benedict is expected appear in the Randburg Magistrate’s court again on Thursday.