Carer stole client’s wallet

A HOME carer employed to help look after a man with motor neurone disease stole his wallet when his back was turned, a court has heard.

When caught, Hannah Ward claimed she had picked up the wallet – which contained £300 in cash – by accident.

Swansea Crown Court heard the theft of the wallet shook the victim’s faith in human nature during what were the last months of his life.

Hannah George, prosecuting, said at the time of the offence Ward was employed by a company called Seren Home Care, and one of the firm’s clients was a 60-year-old Glynneath man with motor neurone disease who required two daily visits to help with cooking and showering. She said that though not one of the man’s regular carers, Ward was none the less one of the trusted helpers who would attend at the house.

The court heard that on April 24 this year the victim realised his wallet – which contained bank cards and £300 in cash – was missing.

The prosecutor said the man’s family called Seren and the firm advised them to contact the police.

Hannah Ward, aged 34, of Oak Road, Gurnos, Merthyr Tydfil, had previously pleaded guilty to theft when she appeared in the dock for sentencing. She has no previous convictions.

Craig Jones, for Ward, accepted his client had committed a “mean offence”. He said the defendant had since 2013 effectively been the full-time carer for her husband following his discharge from the armed forces.

With a one-quarter discount for her guilty plea Judge Paul Thomas QC sentenced the defendant to nine months in prison suspended for 18 months, and ordered her to complete a rehabilitation course and 200 hours of unpaid work. She must also pay back the victim’s family the money she stole.