£40,000 elder abuse conviction
Published on 22 October 2014 02:00 PM
Commenting on the conviction of a fraudster who pretended to be in coma to con his neighbour out of £40,000 at Swansea Crown Court, Graeme Francis of Age Cymru says:
"This distressing case shines a spotlight on the issue of elder abuse.
"Research has estimated that over 45,500 older people are being abused in their own homes, often by people they know and trust, but less than 5,000 elder abuse cases are reported to social services across Wales each year.
"Elder abuse can happen anywhere - in the home, in a care home, a day centre, lunch club, hospital or a public place.
"This abuse can take many different forms - from physical abuse; psychological abuse; financial abuse; to sexual abuse and neglect.
"Elder abuse in any way, shape or form is unacceptable, and we salute the police and other agencies for their work in bringing this perpetrator to justice.
"We hope this sends a message to anyone else considering conning a vulnerable person that they will be brought to justice.
"If you or someone you know is being abused, or you suspect that someone you know is being abused please report it to the police or social services.
"You don't have to suffer in silence."