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A trusted estate agent worker, Frances Leach, who stole more than £66,000 from her employer in a shocking breach of trust, has managed to avoid prison. Leach was employed by Signature North East's letting division, based in Tynemouth, where she was responsible for managing properties.

In November 2023, the company's managing director, Mark Small, noticed a large drop in profits. When he questioned Leach about it, she provided an excuse and was asked to compile a report.

However, when she failed to deliver the report, which was out of character for her usual efficiency, Mr Small grew suspicious and quietly began his own investigation. He uncovered a hidden tab on a spreadsheet showing unexplained refunds totalling over £57,000 within a six-month period, a figure that would

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