Conviction of carer ‘sends out strong message’

Det Insp Mark Long from the Bradford District Safeguarding Unit, was speaking after Sarah Bonner, of Burley-in-Wharfedale was found guilty of stealing from a woman she was providing care for.

Bonner, aged 39, from Aireville Terrace, received a four-month curfew at Bradford Magistrates’ Court yesterday for stealing £20 from 84-year-old Constance Lancaster in December last year. She was also fined £200 with £60 costs.

Mrs Lancaster passed away earlier this year, but she had told police that she was “shocked” and “hurt” by Bonner’s abuse of her trust.

Det Insp Long said: “We are satisfied with this conviction and hope it will bring some closure to what has been a difficult and stressful situation for Mrs Lancaster’s family.

“Mrs Lancaster was completely taken in by Bonner’s caring and polite nature, which made the theft even more despicable.”

“Any allegations of crimes made by victims in care or their families, will be investigated thoroughly.”