A woman from Middlesbrough who stole nearly £6,000 from her elderly grandfather has appeared at Teesside Crown Court.

Concerns were raised to police as care home fees for the 82-year-old, who has dementia, hadn’t been paid for six months, despite his granddaughter having control of his finances under Lasting Power of Attorney.

Investigations by the Child Abuse and Vulnerable Adult (CAVA) Unit proved that from Autumn 2021 to Spring 2022, the woman had stolen the money intended to pay for her grandfather’s care.

She was interviewed by police in May and charged with theft, appearing at Teesside Magistrates’ Court in August.

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From there she was bailed, to appear at Teesside Crown Court for sentencing on Monday, October 3.

The 30-year-old was sentenced to 8 months (suspended for 18 months); she must also carry out 150 hours unpaid work and 25 probation days.

CAVA Detective Chief Inspector Deb Fenny said: “We’re grateful to our social care colleagues who contacted us with their concerns - and for their assistance throughout our investigation.

“Although reporting of these cases is thankfully quite rare, they can be challenging to investigate if the victim sadly can’t get fully involved due to their ill health.

“So, it was very satisfying to achieve the charge and to bring this woman before the court.

“It also demonstrates that police, partner agencies and the courts will work tirelessly to protect the most vulnerable in our communities and I would always encourage anyone with concerns to contact Cleveland Police at any time.”

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