Former Stockton care worker sentenced for £12,000 fraud offences against 100-year-old victim

A former care home worker who admitted stealing from a vulnerable elderly person has been sentenced today, 3^rd February.

A family member of the 100-year-old resident contacted Cleveland Police in late October 2021 after discovering a number of bank cards and PINs had been sent to the victim, who wasn’t in a position to order or authorise them.

Enquiries by specialist detectives from Cleveland Police’s CAVA team, supported by other expert colleagues from across the force, revealed that around £12,000 had been spent over a two-year period with purchases including an overnight hotel stay, goods from Amazon, Uber Eats and local shops and businesses.

Money had also been withdrawn from cashpoints on a number of occasions.

Stockton woman Nicola Wake, 42, who worked at the home where the victim resided was arrested and interviewed, but she repeatedly denied being involved in any fraudulent activity.

Her refusal to admit what she’d done continued even after she was charged with a number of fraud and forgery offences, however at Teesside crown Court on 11^th December 2024 she finally pleaded guilty to:

Fraud by abuse of position between 10th June 2019 and 25th May 2021

Fraud by false representation between 9th March and 9th April 2021

Fraud by false representation between 9th March and 9th April 2021

Fraud by false representation between 9th March and 9th April 2021

Forgery and Counterfeiting on 27th June 2022.

Today, Wake was issued a 15-month custodial sentenced, suspended for 18 months. She also received 150 hours of unpaid work and a fine.

Officer in the case CAVA Detective Sergeant Claire McNeill said: “This was a shocking and despicable crime involving a vulnerable victim who has now sadly passed away.

“Wake was in a position of trust and should have been doing everything possible to care for, protect and safeguard the vulnerable resident at the care home.

“Offences involving finances and fraud are always extremely complex however we were determined to use all the specialist resources at our disposal to bring Wake to justice.  I’m glad she finally admitted to what she’d done and will reflect on her actions.

“I also hope the victim’s family gain some closure and I wish them well for the future.”

DS McNeill added: “Protecting vulnerable elderly people is everyone’s responsibility and I’d remind anyone with concerns about an older person whether a relative, neighbour or friend they can contact Cleveland Police at any time, either online or via the 101 number. 

“CAVA’s specially trained officers will always safeguard victims while carrying out thorough enquiries into all reports.”