Care home manager is accused of fraud

A CARE home manager has appeared in court accused of fleecing cash from vulnerable residents.

Neil Stewart was in charge at Risedale Rest Home, in Whitley Bay, when he allegedly helped himself to a total of £20,000 from three pensioners in his care.

The 48-year-old was in the dock at Newcastle Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday.

He spoke only to confirm his name, date of birth and address and to officially withhold his pleas to three counts of fraud by abuse of position.

Stewart, of Mill Farm Close, in Elswick, is alleged to have committed the offences between October 2015 and April 2017.

He is suspected of taking £3,400 from the first resident, £1,700 from the second and £15,000 from the third.

Prosecutor, Paul Doney, said all the alleged victims were vulnerable.

He added: “This is a matter the Crown would represent is not suitable for summary trial.

“The defendant was a manager at Risedale Rest Home in Whitley Bay when he’s allegedly fraudulently used his position to take money from three residents.”

Matthew Purves, defending, made no representations.

District Judge Zoe Passfield declined jurisdiction, telling Stewart his case would be heard at Newcastle Crown Court.

She added: “Your case is too serious for this court, so I’m sending you to the crown court.

“You must appear there on March 9 no later than 9.30am. I will grant you unconditional bail to that date. That means, you must attend.

“If you don’t, that’s a separate offence and a warrant could be issued for your arrest. Stay in touch with your solicitor.”