Stealing charge dropped against Sara Huegill

Sara Huegill, wife of Olympic swimming champion Geoff Huegill has had a stealing charge dropped in Byron Bay Local Court today.

The former publicist and mother-of-two shoplifted a pair of $1895 leather pants from Byron Bay's Island Luxe store in May while on holiday in the area with her family.

Huegill refused to comment upon arriving at court this morning.

The police prosecutor argued the offence wasn't committed out of need or necessity, calling Huegill's offending "cynical" after she had a friendly interaction with staff, gaining their trust and ultimately making it easier for her to steal the pants.

But the magistrate found she has a recognised mental illness and is living with an adjustment, depressive, eating and substance abuse disorder.

The magistrate also acknowledged she appeared remorseful and ashamed.

The charge was dropped on mental health grounds.

Huegill was discharged into the care of her father, and will be monitored by the court for six months while she undergoes therapy.