Alleged fraudster Samantha Cookes faces 55 new charges of theft and deception

New charges against former Tralee resident include 53 theft charges and two deception charges relating to welfare and disability payments

Samantha Cookes at Tralee District Court in July. Picture: Domnick Walsh

Dozens of new charges against alleged fraudster Samantha Cookes accuse her of stealing sums amounting to tens of thousands of euro from the State in monthly supplementary welfare and disability allowances over a four-year period.

Ms Cookes, who appeared in person at Tralee District Court, dressed in pink and black, was charged with 53 additional thefts and two charges of deception on Wednesday.