Yapton woman imprisoned for forging elderly neighbour’s cheques

A Yapton woman has been sentenced to 12 months imprisonment for forging £12,850 worth of cheques belonging to an elderly neighbour.

Vicky Wilson, 42, of Bilsham Road, Yapton, befriended the vulnerable 94-year old man who lived on the same caravan site and over several months she systematically signed cheques in his name on his bank account and addressed them to her own building society account.

But her crimes came to light in March this year when the manager of a company which checks on the welfare of people living on caravan sites across West Sussex was helping by going through his bank statement and came across these payments which the man had not authorised.

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Police enquiries swiftly led to Wilson’s arrest and when interviewed she admitted everything.

She was sentenced at Chichester Crown Court on Thursday, July 2.

Detective Constable Paul Gilmour said; “This was a brazen crime, in which Wilson deliberately targeted her elderly neighbour, relying on his lack of attention to his financial affairs to help her get away with it.

“She used the money to help with servicing her debts, but also spent some on clothing, general and food shopping and other living expenses.

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“But her plans came unstuck when a caring professional looked through the man’s records and realised what was going on.

“It was a despicable thing to do, especially to such a vulnerable man.

“Fortunately the bank has refunded the money to the victim’s account

“This case serves as a reminder to us all - ensure that you have a good grip on your affairs and, if necessary, get independent and qualified advice and support, whether from your bank or from another reputable source.”

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