A Swindon carer has been sentenced after being caught stealing from her elderly clients.
Deborah Rothwell (57) from Constable Road, Swindon, pleaded guilty at Swindon Crown Court on Wednesday (24/10) to taking money from an 87-year-old victim between February and March this year.
In February this year the family of the victim reported to us their concerns about their aunty’s carer and the amount of money going missing from her purse. The family noticed that Rothwell visited her home almost everyday and each time money would go missing from the purse. Prior to contacting police they also put a covert camera in place to capture any crime possibly taking place.
Rothwell stole a total of £115 from the victim before being caught; she was arrested by officers soon after another theft from the victim’s purse. The money inside had been marked with UV dye which showed up on her hands under UV lights in custody.
She admitted stealing from her client during an interview with officers where she was shown CCTV footage proving she had stolen the money.
Also, during the investigation it was discovered that Rothwell had stolen £100 from another vulnerable female client.
Rothwell was given a six month jail sentence – suspended for 18 months and ordered to take part in a rehabilitation course. She was also ordered to pay compensation to both victims as well as court costs.
Det Con Sonia Marsh said: “Deborah Rothwell was trusted by her clients and the discovery of her dishonesty has come as a hugh shock to them. Hopefully this sentence gives them some comfort.
“The use of a covert camera installed by the family of one of the victims proved invaluable in helping us build a case, secure evidence and eventually get a conviction against Deborah Rothwell.
“I would encourage families who may have concerns around elderly or vulnerable relatives to consider installing a camera – there are many good and inexpensive ones on the market now. Obviously, ensure you have the family member’s consent and make sure you place it where it doesn’t intrude on their privacy.
“Although Deborah Rothwell didn’t receive a custodial sentence she will be barred from doing future jobs where she would be in a position of trust.”
Connie Lowe, niece of the 87-year-old victim, said: “We want Deborah Rothwell to know about the consequences of what she did; she may have escaped a serious sentence but our family have not and have suffered the aftermath of her actions.
“It’s reduced a once strong independent woman to someone who has been left feeling extremely vulnerable with health and trust issues.
“Her home is no longer a safe and secure place since Deborah Rothwell, who was trusted implicity, betrayed our trust which is still felt today.
“I want to say to others that if you are ever suspicious around care for a vulnerable or elderly loved one please contact the police immediately as we did.
“We’d like to thank the care agency as well as the detectives involved in this case for all their hard work, help and support during this very difficult time.”
