A Cheshire mother who opened bank accounts in her daughter's name and siphoned off more than £18,000 has been spared jail. Karen Leahy, 57, of Dalefolds Lane, Marton, Winsford, appeared at Chester Crown Court where she received a 15-month sentence, suspended for 24 months.
Leahy had previously pleaded guilty to 11 counts of fraud by false representation. The court heard how, between 2015 and 2024, she set up multiple bank accounts in her daughter's name without her knowledge.
How the fraud was discovered
The victim only discovered the offences when she tried to access her finances and found that more than £18,000 worth of debt had been accumulated in her name. She also learned that two County Court judgements had been made against her, despite never having taken out any finances herself.
Following the discovery, the victim reported the matter to Cheshire Police and Leahy was subsequently arrested.
Police comment after sentencing
After sentencing, Detective Constable Vickie Wallace, of Northwich, said: "Leahy went to great lengths in order to carry out her crimes, creating multiple face accounts and fake email addresses in order to take out thousands of pounds worth of cash in her daughter's name.
"This case has had a lasting impact on the victim, not only has she been betrayed by her own mother, but she has also been unable to get any loans or other personal finances, in order to purchase items for her and her family."
Wallace added: "I hope that the conclusion of this case, and the sentence handed to her mother will provide her with some closure and allow her to move forward with her life."
