A care worker from Keynsham has been jailed for more than four years after stealing wedding rings and cash from elderly dementia sufferers in her care.
Amy Bassett, 33, pleaded guilty to one count of dwelling theft and three counts of fraud by false representation. She was handed a 52-month prison sentence on Friday, November 6, reports Somerset Live.
Pattern of offending
The court was told that Bassett, who was working as a care worker at the time, "demonstrated a sustained pattern of offending against exceptionally vulnerable victims" between January and December 2024.
The crimes were carried out against elderly women suffering from severe dementia who required significant levels of care and support. Bassett committed a dwelling theft at a property in Bath that had been left empty by a 100-year-old woman after she moved to a care setting.
Bassett, who visited the property regularly as part of her duties, attempted to deposit a fraudulent cheque for a "significant amount" into a bank account, but the transaction was intercepted by the bank before any funds were transferred, Avon and Somerset Police said. She had also fraudulently opened a credit card account in the victim's name, with repayments deducted from the victim's personal bank account, resulting in a "substantial financial loss".
Second series of offences
A second series of offences took place at a care home in a village within the Bath and North East Somerset area, involving a woman in her late 70s with advanced dementia who requires round-the-clock care. The victim's engagement ring and wedding ring were taken without consent and sold at a pawnbroker to fund Christmas presents.
Police stated that the emotional toll on the families was considerable, adding that they have maintained contact with those involved throughout the investigation and have been offered access to specialist support services. Officers noted that extensive enquiries were necessary to gather sufficient evidence to prosecute Bassett.
PC Samantha Nation, the investigating officer, said: "This was a lengthy and complex investigation that uncovered a persistent pattern of offending against some of the most vulnerable members of our community.
"Over an extended period, the defendant repeatedly targeted elderly women suffering from dementia, exploiting their age, medical conditions and reliance on others in order to commit fraud and theft for personal financial gain.
"These offences were made all the more serious by the abuse of trust involved and the deliberate targeting of individuals who were unable to protect themselves.
"I would like to thank the victims' families for their patience, support and determination throughout what has been an emotional and often distressing process. Their commitment to protecting their loved ones played a vital role in the investigation.
"While no sentence can undo the harm caused to these victims and their families, I welcome the outcome at court. I hope this conviction sends a clear message that those who seek to exploit vulnerable people, particularly elderly individuals who depend upon others for their care and wellbeing, will be thoroughly investigated and held accountable for their actions."
