A TRUSTED carer systematically helped herself to money from a vulnerable client’s advance pension payment.

Linda Peacock regularly accompanied the man, who has learning difficulties, on trips to the bank to withdraw money before going shopping.

Durham Crown Court heard that Peacock, who was employed by an agency to visit the man at his home in South Moor, Stanley, was not permitted to withdraw money on clients' behalf.

But she admitted regularly dipping into an envelope containing money withdrawn by her victim.

Peacock, 53, of Cookson Place, Stanley, admitted theft at a previous hearing, but on the basis that she took between £4,000 and £5,000. The prosecution claimed the figure was up to £22,750.

Peacock was remanded in custody by Judge Christopher Prince at that hearing, in mid-March, as he was concerned that she had apparently made threats to starve herself.

She was brought from custody for a trial of issue and sentencing at the court today (Thursday May 30).

Peacock conceded she used the money to help buy jewellery, perfume and clothes and the amount taken could have been up to £7,200.

The court heard that during the period the theft took place she had monthly income of about £1,300, but her expenditure averaged about £3,000 per month.

There were also unexplained entries into her bank account and supposed “gift” payments from the now-deceased father of the victim in the case.

Having heard the evidence, Recorder Graham Hyland said he was satisfied the figure by which she benefited was at least £11,600.

But he said as she has spent ten weeks in custody he imposed a 12-month sentence, suspended for a year.

Peacock must return to court for a proceeds of crime hearing on September 9.