Fraudster Pocketed £960 from Dead Man’s Account
Patrick Egerton, 25, from Spiders Island, Alderbury, has been handed a 14-week prison sentence – suspended for 18 months – at Salisbury Crown Court. He admitted to two counts of fraud by false representation in March 2021.
£960 Stolen After Friend’s Death
Egerton claimed he was mates with a Salisbury man in his 20s who sadly died in November 2018. When the deceased’s family tried to close his bank account in January 2019, they discovered the full £960 had vanished in two transfers to Egerton’s account.
The family’s suspicions sparked a police probe. Egerton insisted the cash was a loan he had made to his late friend. But police weren’t convinced.
Police Slam Egerton’s Lies
“Throughout the investigation, Egerton continually denied his involvement and made false claims that his friend and family had willingly given him the money which was owed to him,” said Detective Constable Roxanne Whitton.
“His untrue claims prolonged the case and caused the victim’s family immense pain, preventing them from grieving in peace.”
“Now that Egerton has admitted the fraud and been punished, I hope the family can finally find closure.”
Community Service and Rehab Ordered
In addition to the suspended sentence, Egerton must complete 100 hours of community service and a 50-day rehabilitation programme.
