Woman jailed for abusing power of attorney role

A woman has recently been jailed after she was granted power of attorney over a multiple sclerosis sufferer's finances and stole £30,000 from her.

The 18 month jail sentence was given to Helen Wetherill at Lincoln Crown Court, the Lincolnshire Echo reported.

Ms Wetherill, 44, took cash from the bank account, which received money from the lady's Independent Living Fund.

Recorder Paull Mann, who passed the sentence, said: "I have to deal with you for the most disgraceful breach of trust. It is the sort of case the old and infirm fear of when they lose their ability to cope for themselves."

Ms Wetherill's victim, who has not been named, was forced to pay her utility bills and carers using her own savings when she discovered that the fund did not contain enough money.

This case highlights the important of having giving a trusted individual lasting power of attorney over affairs.

According to legal executive Michelle Cruddass, people should also have this in place as soon as possible, the Independent reported.

Published by Hannah Carr