The 86-year-old “shameful” fraudster defrauded a relative for £ 87,000 after receiving the ability of legal professional
An 86-year-old pensioner who cheated on his elderly and vulnerable brother-in-law out of £ 87,000 was spared jail.
David Ball had been given a power of attorney for his 92-year-old relative Wain Davies, who lived in Llandudno.
However, within 18 months between May 2017 and October 10, 2018, Ball withdrew thousands of his brother-in-law’s accounts, the Mold Crown Court heard.
Ball of Fenay Bridge in Almondbury, Huddersfield, admitted two cases of fraud, but denied two others, which were on file along with a third charge.
Judge Niclas Parry handed Ball a two-year prison sentence, which he suspended for two years because the defendant repaid the money raised and was caring for his elderly wife.
Judge Niclas Parry
Accusingly, Oliver King said Mr Davies had mobility problems but was “mentally in good shape”.
Ball and his wife made frequent visits to Mr. Davies, and it was suggested that the defendant and other family members could assume the power of attorney to help the victim.
However, Ball immediately initiated a series of money transfers from his account that totaled around £ 21,000.
“It was very much the defendant who was in the driver’s seat,” said Mr. King.
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On the subject of matching items
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On the subject of matching items
There were other online transactions totaling £ 66,000 that Ball took over from Mr Davies, prosecutors said.
Even so, Mr Davies treated Ball and his wife generously, granting him a £ 1,000 allowance for their accommodation when they visited, but they would stay in the most expensive suite and often spend more than £ 1,000, Mr King said.
Eventually the victim became suspicious, the police were called, and it was found that they had used Mr Davies’ money on things like vacation and stove.
A victim impact statement from a family member stated that the “breach of trust” had a “profound and detrimental effect” on Mr. Davies, who died in July 2020 and “divided” the families.
In the interview, Ball didn’t accept that he had done anything wrong, said that many transactions were authorized and that he intended to repay the money. He also had a good work ethic and a successful career, the court heard.
Judge Parry condemned Ball, saying, “This case involves greed and a shameful breach of trust by a vulnerable victim.
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“They took advantage of a family situation based on vulnerability and illness.”
Judge Parry added, “Your deception tragically tainted the final months of your victim’s long, decent life.”
The counts regarding his wife, Nora Ball, will also be on file, the judge said, and there was also a surcharge to be paid.
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