Jail for raiding sister’s savings

AN ELDERLY woman has been jailed after spending more than $80,000 of her sister-in-law’s life savings, which was entrusted to her while her victim resided in a Kingaroy aged care facility.

Janice May Tumeth, 77, was granted power of attorney over her sister-in-law’s finances while she was living in the Orana Aged Care Facility, giving Tumeth the power to pay expenses and make investments.

Between 2014 and 2019 Tumeth withdrew $80,446.95 of her sister-in-law’s money, with the deception finally uncovered by Orana after several failed payments from the depleted account.

Hundreds of transactions took place across Southeast Queensland including Wondai, Kingaroy, Murgon, Nanango, Windsor and Toowoomba, despite the 77year-old being unable to drive, Kingaroy Magistrates Court was told.

“A quick calculation shows that you must have been helping yourself to this money, which belonged to your sisterin-law, at least twice a week,” Magistrate Andrew Sinclair said.

“Enduring powers of attorney are given commonly to trusted family members, or very close friends, for people who aren't in a position to look after themselves.

“The offences are extremely serious, involving a position of trust for a very vulnerable victim.”

Defence lawyer Jay Rose said her client couldn’t provide any information on the current whereabouts of the stolen cash, but claims at least some of the money was used to purchase items for the victim.

None of the money owing to the victim or Orana has been repaid.

Tumeth pleaded guilty to 10 charges, including five counts of stealing and five counts of fraud.

The elderly woman was sentenced to two years’ jail, with her parole date set for December 15 this year.