A man who was appointed under a power of attorney to look after a woman’s affairs, when she could no longer manage to do so herself, has been sentenced to 15 months in prison after he abused his position of trust to steal more than £100,000 from her.

The man, who was a family friend, was given the power of attorney after the woman developed dementia. Although they were unaware of it at the time, he and his wife were the main beneficiaries under her will.

An investigation was only put in train when the woman’s care home fees went substantially into arrears.

In cases like this, a confiscation order under the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 is normally sought.

Click here for information on powers of attorney.