On February 3, Abigail Wright was sentenced to 27 weeks in jail for defrauding a 92-year-old man. She appeared at Crewe Magistrates' Court where she pleaded guilty to four counts of fraud by false representation.

Wright, 37, of Flag Lane in Crewe, was also handed an indefinite restraining order prohibiting her from contacting the victim or his family. Additionally, she was ordered to repay the £800 she had stolen.

Remarkably, Wright had only recently been released from prison for similar offenses against the same victim, and despite her release, she re-established contact with him.

On November 6, 2024, a neighbour observed Wright visiting the man's home and promptly alerted the police. PC James Rowley conducted a welfare check at the residence to ensure the victim's safety.

After speaking with the victim's son, who was advised to monitor his father, it was discovered the following day that £800 was missing from the account accessible to the elderly man. The son suspected Wright and reported the incident to PC Rowley.

The police canceled the victim's debit card and reviewed transaction details, identifying several suspicious activities. Upon visiting the victim, PC Rowley found him giving cash to Wright.

PC Rowley noted, "While he was doing this willingly, he lacked a full understanding of the situation and felt sorry for her, thus conceding to her cash demands."

During the investigation, £150 was recovered from Wright, but she claimed it was from another friend, despite being witnessed during a transaction at an alleyway. She had also unauthorizedly used the victim's card to withdraw significant funds on three separate occasions.

The £150 was confiscated, and Wright was arrested shortly after. Just two days later, she attempted to contact the victim again, violating her bail conditions.

Wright was eventually located and detained at an Asda store. PC James Rowley remarked, “The moment she was released from prison, her criminal behaviour resumed unabated, demonstrating a clear exploitation of the victim’s vulnerability.”

He expressed gratitude towards the community for their vigilance in looking out for vulnerable neighbors and for reporting their concerns. PC Rowley also acknowledged the extensive efforts of his colleagues in securing justice for the elderly victim, highlighting the commitment to protecting the most vulnerable members of society.

“Congleton Beat Team takes pride in this result and remains dedicated to assisting those in need,” he added.