Liverpool Man Jailed for Preying on Deaf Woman in Shocking Fraud
Steven Derbyshire, 28, from Liverpool, has been locked up for 30 months after swindling a vulnerable deaf woman out of her disability payments and wages. The fraudster’s dirty scheme almost saw his victim lose her home.
Exploiting Trust and Vulnerability
Derbyshire was convicted on three counts of fraud and one of theft. Detective Constable Colin Graham from the Economic Crime Team revealed the full story:
“Derbyshire defrauded his victim, a deaf woman in her 60s, by diverting her disability payments and wages into his own account, meaning she nearly lost her home as she couldn’t pay her bills.”
“He played on her trust and vulnerability, exploiting her dependence on others to manage her finances for his own gain.”
Years of Abuse Finally Uncovered
The victim endured years of financial abuse and isolation before colleagues spotted something was wrong in 2017. They alerted Social Services, who then contacted the police.
Investigators found Derbyshire squandered her money on luxury items, including a flashy VW with voice-controlled activation, while essential bills went unpaid.
Community Team Works to Rebuild Victim’s Life
Police teamed up with Sefton Social Services, the NHS, Merseyside Society for Deaf People, and Women’s and Children’s Aid to support the victim. They helped her dodge repossession and sorted out her gas, electric, and water bills.
“I welcome the sentencing of Steven Derbyshire and hope his victim now has the confidence and support to rebuild her life,” said DC Graham.
Speak Out Against Financial Abuse
If you or someone you know is a victim of similar fraud, report it. Contact @MerPolCC or call 101. Specialist officers are ready to investigate and bring offenders to justice.
