A WOMAN who defrauded an 85-year-old man from Shaftesbury out of more than £2,000 has been ordered to pay £500 in costs.

The woman, in her 40s and also from Shaftesbury, pleaded guilty to fraud by false representation and was sentenced at Weymouth Magistrates’ Court last Thursday, May 22.

Staff at Shaftesbury Hospital alerted Dorset Police in March 2024 after they had concerns about an 85-year-old man in their care.

This comes after reports that the majority of the money in his bank account had been withdrawn from cash machines whilst he was in hospital.

An investigation was launched, and following enquiries by officers, it was established that his bank card was being used by a woman known to him, and a total of £2,080 had been withdrawn in cash without the victim’s permission.

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After taking statements, checking financial records and reviewing CCTV, officers were able to charge a Shaftesbury woman, and she was ordered to pay compensation of £500 and will be subject to rehabilitation activity requirements following her sentencing.

PC Matt Saunders, of Dorset Police, said: “This case involved a very vulnerable victim who lost more than £2,000 at the hands of a fraudster.

“Through our investigation, we were able to bring the offender before the courts to be held accountable for her actions, and we hope this demonstrates we will do all we can to secure justice for victims of fraud.”

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