A WOMAN took over the identity of her friend to steal more than £12,000, a court heard yesterday.

Michelle Chadwick used her former flatmate's personal details to obtain loans and purchases on credit.

Darlington Magistrates' Court was told the 20-year-old knew she was unable to get credit herself so she applied for a loan on the Internet and bought a laptop computer on credit using friend Victoria Reynold's particulars.

She also stole a credit card belonging to Ms Reynold.

Simon Crowder, prosecuting, said: "The defendant used the victim's details to be able to obtain credit. The £10,000 was applied for on the Internet using Victoria Reynold's details.

"The loan was transferred directly into her bank account. She also went into a computer outlet and purchased a laptop computer worth £1,988.

"In order to pay for it she set up credit to obtain the laptop.

"In effect it is a type of identification theft. She has taken Victoria Reynold's details in order to obtain credit.

"The credit card was also used to obtain credit that way."

Chadwick, of South View, Darlington, pleaded guilty to stealing a credit card and two counts of obtaining money transfers by deception with three matters taken into consideration.

Magistrates heard she was of previous good character.

Graham Hunsley, defending, said Chadwick had been disowned by her parents because of her actions.

He said she had been physically threatened after becoming involved with a man who used money she gave him to buy contraband goods.

Mr Hunsley said: "She was taken for a ride by other people. It seems a man she had an association with had ideas about a business venture. Bit by bit she was drawn into this to a point where she was threatened.

"She parted with money, a payment of £8,500, which it seems was used to buy contrabrand cigarettes and drink. That was one of the enterprises these people were drawn into.

"There were physical threats to her. Against that background she became involved in these matters we have heard about today."

Chadwick was given a 12- month community punishment order and ordered to pay £118 costs.