POLICE

A woman has been jailed for over four years after posing as a carer to steal from an elderly woman in her own home 

Belinda Evans, of Westgate appeared before court last Friday (15 May) after admitting stealing cash, jewellery and medication from the bed-bound 91-year-old.

On April 15th this year Evans approached the address at 4.30am, banging on the door and shouting through the letterbox claiming to be a carer and asking to be given the key code. 

The victim let Evans in, but quickly realised that the time of the visit was out of step with her usual routine and requested the 41-year-old leave. Evans refused and proceeded to steal £70 in cash and a gold watch, belonging to the victim’s dead husband. 

Detective Constable Sam Carr said: “This crime saw a cold, calculated, heartless thief prey on an extremely vulnerable member of the community using absolutely shameful tactics. I welcome the sentence given on Friday.”

“Our inquiry to identify Evans and put her before court has moved at pace. DC Mark Szabo carried out some excellent work and found medication belonging to the victim in Evans’s flat. 

“I hope our swift investigation offers reassurance to the public that these crimes are investigated and we will put perpetrators before the courts.

“On this occasion, the victim quickly noticed something wasn’t right and alerted family members. This isn’t always the case. If you have elderly or vulnerable relatives, please check in with them and remind them to be vigilant in who they let in to their home and to report anyone suspicious to police.”

Evans was jailed for four and a half years by Sheffield Crown Court.