Gardener Jailed for Ripping Off Dementia-Stricken Pensioner
A ruthless conman has been locked up for exploiting a vulnerable 88-year-old dementia sufferer. Elliot Shaw, 34, was handed a three-year-and-four-month prison sentence after fleecing the pensioner out of £42,000.
Overcharging for Shoddy Garden Work
Shaw was hired to do minor gardening jobs like removing a greenhouse, painting window frames, and trimming bushes. But instead of honest work, the pensioner got substandard service and sky-high fees. Shaw charged between £500 and £3,000 for each job between July and December 2022.
Bank Spotlights the Scam
The fraud was uncovered by a sharp-eyed bank employee who noticed suspicious transactions on the pensioner’s account. Investigators followed the money trail directly to Shaw’s bank account, revealing the full extent of the theft.
Police Condemn Cold-Hearted Crime
“This was a despicable and targeted crime,” said PC Emily Carnan. “Shaw took cruel advantage of the victim’s memory loss to line his pockets, showing no remorse.”
PC Carnan urged anyone who suspects they have been a victim of fraud to come forward. Victims can report it online at Action Fraud or call 0300 123 2040 (Mon-Fri, 8 am to 8 pm).
