A family in Northern Ireland is facing turmoil following allegations that a woman exploited her dementia-affected mother, allegedly siphoning off approximately €70,000 (£60,000) from her bank account. This investigation by the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) was initiated last year after reports surfaced regarding suspicious withdrawals from the victim's account over a period of several months.
A source close to both the suspect and the victim's family expressed the profound impact of these thefts, indicating that the family is “utterly shattered” by the betrayal. The source highlighted the gravity of the situation, stating, “I am disgusted that a vulnerable grandmother has been manipulated and abused like this and after working hard her entire life she has had her bank account completely emptied.” It has been reported that the victim's account, previously stable, is now overdrawn by more than £400.
The source detailed that over £7,000 in cash was withdrawn in certain months under questionable circumstances, creating a dire financial situation for the elderly woman. They further expressed concern about the possibility of the victim recovering any of the lost funds, stating, “we fear that she will never get any of this back again.” The emotional toll on the family has been significant, with the source lamenting the betrayal by someone who was meant to care for the vulnerable elderly woman.
Fortunately, other family members implemented protective measures that alerted them to the fraud before the situation deteriorated further. The ongoing investigation has seen one woman arrested and later released on bail, pending further police inquiries. A spokesperson for the PSNI provided an update, stating, “Police in Antrim received a report of fraud and forgery on December 4, 2024, and one woman was subsequently arrested on suspicion of fraud by false representation. Police enquiries in relation to this report remain ongoing at this time.”
As the family navigates through this distressing ordeal, the local community and authorities continue to monitor the situation closely.
Source: Noah Wire Services