SARA PETEGOU'S CRIME IN MIDDLESBROUGH: ELDERLY VICTIM DEFRAUDED AND ABUSED TRUST

A case of serious financial abuse and betrayal has come to light involving a carer named Sara Petegou, who was found guilty of exploiting her position to defraud a vulnerable elderly man in Middlesbrough. The incident spanned from January 1, 2023, through June 30, 2023, during which she illicitly took more than £12,000 from her victim, a man who was under her care.

Petegou was the sole caregiver responsible for this individual, who was placed in a care home shortly before his death in August 2023. Cleveland Police reports indicate that she had unrestricted access to his house keys, bank accounts, and bank cards, which she exploited for her own financial gain. Prosecutor Anthony Pettengell provided detailed insights into her misconduct, revealing that she made numerous cash withdrawals totaling approximately £11,450. In addition, she spent around £1,300 on her victim’s bank cards, further demonstrating her misuse of trust and authority.

Despite repeated requests from social services to return the bank cards after the elderly man was moved into the care home, Petegou failed to comply. Her neglect extended beyond financial exploitation; she also neglected the basic needs of her charge by not providing essential toiletries or clothing items during his time in the care facility. The police investigation uncovered bank statements that confirmed her cash withdrawals from ATMs located in Middlesbrough, specifically at the Hill Street Centre and Linthorpe Road. CCTV footage and ATM records showed her using different bank cards at these locations, establishing her direct involvement in the thefts.

During court proceedings, mitigation statements highlighted that Petegou, residing on Barnaby Avenue, had no prior criminal record and was previously regarded as a person of good character. She admitted to one count of fraud in May, which led to her being sentenced to a two-year prison sentence, suspended for two years. Additionally, she was ordered to complete 20 days of rehabilitation programs to address her actions.

The Cleveland Police emphasized the gravity of her betrayal, noting that she abused her position of trust to deprive the elderly man of his vital funds and necessities. Her actions were particularly egregious given his declining health and hospital stays, during which she continued to withdraw significant sums of money. Detective Constable Victoria Brown led the investigation, which involved extensive analysis of ATM records and CCTV footage to establish her guilt. The police reaffirmed their commitment to safeguarding vulnerable individuals and urged anyone with concerns or information to come forward and contact them, underscoring the importance of protecting those most at risk in the community.