A carer from Chelmsford has been sentenced after defrauding a vulnerable elderly man out of £143,000 to fund her extravagant lifestyle. April Jo Richardson, 32, of Stansted Close, Chelmsford, was found guilty of fraud by abuse of power and fraud by false representation. She received a 20-month sentence, along with additional concurrent terms of six and four months, all suspended for 21 months, at Inner London Crown Court. As part of her sentence, Richardson must complete 150 hours of unpaid work and participate in a 24-day rehabilitation program.
Richardson’s fraudulent scheme targeted a 96-year-old man, a stroke and dementia patient in her care, whom she convinced to finance luxury trips to destinations including Barbados, New York, and Spain. Richardson fabricated a story of battling terminal cancer, even posing as a “cancer nurse” named “Sonia” to solicit further funds from her victim, claiming to need financial help for her “last remaining months of life.”
The case came to light in July 2022, when the elderly couple’s children reviewed their bank statements while arranging for their mother’s permanent care. Discovering the account was significantly overdrawn, they reported the matter to Action Fraud, and it was subsequently referred to the City of London Police’s Fraud Operations Team for investigation.
Detective Inspector Nichola Meghji described Richardson’s actions as “shocking and highly reprehensible,” especially given the vulnerability and generosity of the victims. “It’s very sad to see this level of trust abused,” she said. “Richardson is an incredibly manipulative individual who coerced an elderly couple to part with their money purely for her financial and material gain.”
Employed as a carer for KarePlus on behalf of Essex County Council since 2018, Richardson befriended the patient’s husband, persuading him to make regular payments under false pretences. After obtaining power of attorney in September 2022, the family discovered 202 transactions to Richardson’s accounts, averaging £718 each week, totalling more than £143,000 over five years.
Richardson’s requests included funds for personal items and trips, such as beds for her children, medical treatments abroad, electronics, home renovations, and flights for a family wedding.
This case highlights the importance of vigilance and oversight when caring for vulnerable individuals. Detective Inspector Meghji urged the public to report any suspicious activity, as swift action can prevent similar abuses of trust.
