A domestic worker in Singapore who stole more than a RM1,220,000 worth of jewellery from her employer was sentenced to two-and-a-half years in prison, media said today.

Mary Jane Importante Escalona, 48, stole cash and jewellery valued at nearly S$400,000 (US$277,915) between 2014 and October 2015, the Straits Times reported.

Escalona, who is from the Philippines, pawned the items and lost the money gambling in casinos, the report said.

Escalona worked for the family for six years, and stole items like gold diamond rings and earrings. The items ranged in value from US$3,000 to US$100,000. A gold bracelet worth US$5,000 was found in her room.

Under the charge of theft as a servant, the maximum penalty is up to seven years’ imprisonment and a fine for each charge.

- dpa