Man admits stealing Goody's cash

A 29-year-old man from Essex has pleaded guilty to stealing from television celebrity Jade Goody.

Luke Rustem, of Harlow, was accused of stealing more than £12,000 worth of cheques belonging to Miss Goody between February 2005 and April 2006.

Rustem, Miss Goody's former childminder, admitted the charge when he appeared at Chelmsford Crown Court.

The judge told him he would be given a suspended jail term when he returns to the court for sentence next month.

'Dishonest' man

The court heard that Rustem had cashed the cheques without Miss Goody's permission.

Miss Goody said after the hearing: "It's over now. It's been going on for two years. I'm just pleased it's over.

"It has upset me. Trust is a big thing and he broke that."

Rustem pleaded guilty to nine counts of theft between February 2005 and April 2006.

Judge Anthony Goldtaub QC told Rustem: "Miss Goody trusted you and you repaid her trust and friendship by stealing from her and you should be ashamed of yourself.

"The public will know how dishonest a man you have been."