A former care worker who stole jewellery and money from elderly women with dementia has been jailed for more than four years. Amy Bassett, 33, of St Georges Road in Keynsham, was sentenced to 52 months' imprisonment at Bristol Crown Court after admitting a campaign of theft and fraud against two vulnerable victims.
The court heard that Bassett, who was working as a carer at the time, took sentimental items including an engagement ring and wedding ring, as well as "substantial sums of money", from elderly women suffering from severe dementia. She pleaded guilty to one count of dwelling theft and three counts of fraud by false representation.
Sustained pattern of offending
Prosecutors said Bassett "demonstrated a sustained pattern of offending against exceptionally vulnerable victims" between January and December 2024, targeting women who required significant levels of care and support.
Bassett carried out a dwelling theft at a property in Bath that had been vacated by a 100-year-old woman after she had moved into a care facility. Bassett, who visited the property on a regular basis in her capacity as a care worker, 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 confirmed. She had also fraudulently established a credit card account using the victim's identity.
Repayments were deducted from the victim's personal bank account, resulting in "substantial financial loss". Officers stated that the second series of crimes occurred at a care facility in a village within the Bath and North East Somerset region. It concerned a woman in her late 70s with advanced dementia who requires round-the-clock care.
Rings sold for Christmas presents
The victim's engagement ring and wedding ring were taken without permission and were subsequently sold at a pawnbroker to generate funds for Christmas presents.
Officers confirmed the emotional toll on the families was considerable and maintain contact with the families throughout the investigation, with access to specialist support services being offered. Police stated that extensive enquiries were necessary to compile evidence for Bassett's prosecution.
Police welcome conviction
PC Samantha Nation, investigating officer in the case, 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."
