CARER JAILED FOR STEALING THOUSANDS FROM ELDERLY COUPLE IN SWANSEA
A caregiver named David Lewis was convicted of stealing over £9,000 from an elderly couple he was entrusted to care for.The victims, in their 80s, had placed their trust in him during the Covid pandemic and provided him with their bank card for shopping purposes.
Initially working as an informal carer, Lewis later became their official caregiver.
The couple was deeply distressed after discovering that, between November 1, 2021, and January 4, 2022, Lewis carried out 35 cash withdrawals, each ranging from £140 to £400, from their bank account.
When confronted by family members, Lewis admitted to the theft, claiming he found the couple’s bank card on the floor of their home, guessed the PIN, and used it to access their funds.
He admitted to spending the stolen money on bills, clothing, and gifts, and expressed remorse.
Lewis’s criminal record includes a robbery conviction from 2001.
During his court appearance at Swansea Crown Court, prosecutor Sian Cutter described his conduct as 'sinister, ugly, mean and deplorable.' His lawyer, Iwan Jenkins, acknowledged the seriousness of the offence and pointed out that Lewis felt remorse and had secured employment which might enable him to repay the stolen amounts.
Judge Jeremy Jenkins sentenced him to 10 months in prison, with a half-time release on license, considering his background which includes other criminal offences such as a family jewelry theft.
The victims described feelings of betrayal, heartbreak, and stress, emphasizing their lifelong savings and hard work for their care.
The case highlights the serious breach of trust and harm inflicted upon vulnerable elderly individuals.
