Fraudster who stole thousands from elderly man appears in court

A fraudster who stole thousands of pounds from an elderly man in Swindon has been sentenced.

Andy Baldwin, 64, of Purslane Close, appeared at Swindon Magistrates Court on June 1 and was sentenced to 12 months imprisonment suspended for two years and ordered to pay £12,000 compensation after pleading guilty to fraud by false representation.

Baldwin befriended the victim, a man in his 80s who lived alone, many years ago and soon became his carer after the man gave up his driving licence due to health issues.

The victim became dependent on Baldwin, who over a period of two years, defrauded him of approximately £12,000 of his savings.

He was interviewed in relation to fraud last November and appeared in court last week.

Local Crime Investigator Tina Willison said: “This was a serious breach of trust. The victim relied on Baldwin for care and support over a period of time, yet he exploited that position for personal gain.

“Whilst the victim believed Baldwin was caring for him, running errands and transporting him to and from medical appointments, he was in fact secretly withdrawing £12,000 from the victim’s bank account. He not only caused significant financial loss but also emotional harm.

“We want to reassure the public that offences of this nature are investigated thoroughly, and we will always seek to protect vulnerable members of our community.”