Fraudster Scams Elderly Widow Out of £100,000
A heartless fraudster has been found guilty of swindling an elderly widow out of more than £100,000. Andrew Amdur, 48, of Kingsgate Avenue, was convicted of two counts of fraud and one count of theft at Southwark Crown Court after an eight-day trial. His sentencing is set for 10 May.
Scam Began with a Dog Walk
In the months before September 2017, Amdur cleverly targeted a wealthy widow after meeting her while walking her dog. He claimed he was walking his brother’s dog and told her he was an opera singer. Using this trust, he embezzled a staggering £105,000 from her.
Fake Charities and High-Spending Lies
The crooked scheme involved a phone call to the victim’s bank on 28 August 2017, where £80,000 was requested to be transferred. Amdur pretended the money was for charity and entertainment costs — but none of it went to charity. Instead, it funded his lavish lifestyle, including gambling.
On 21 September, another £25,000 vanished from the widow’s account, supposedly to buy a harp. Amdur claimed the money was owed to him for wages and operatic performances he promised to give in her home — lies police quickly uncovered.
Police Act Fast, Fraudster Nabbed
Following a report in September 2017, officers from 1 CID launched an investigation. Amdur was arrested just two days later, questioned, and eventually charged after a further interview in 2018.
“Andrew Amdur took advantage of the victim’s kind nature,” said Detective Sergeant Richard Kidd. “Thanks to the community’s help, we have closed this case. The victim was unaware of the spending spree on her money. I hope this conviction brings her some comfort and closure.”
