Yet another recent case illustrates that the elderly and the bereaved are a target for those who seek to manipulate others for their own benefit.
An NHS bereavement services adviser from Leicestershire was jailed after being found guilty of stealing £3/4 million from the estates of deceased hospital patients.
The woman had befriended the patients and used the trust they bestowed on her to forge wills and other documents, allowing her to embezzle large sums from them. This had continued since at least 2002.
She pleaded guilty to 11 counts of forging wills and other documents, numerous charges of theft and other offences and was sent to prison for five years.
Proceedings under the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 will now commence in order to confiscate, to the extent possible, her ‘criminal assets’ so that restitution can be made. One of the beneficiaries under a will which was replaced by a forged will was a charity, which had been bequeathed more than £200,000.
01634 811118
Will Forgery Case Shows Need for Caution
The contents of this article are intended for general information purposes only and shall not be deemed to be, or constitute legal advice. We cannot accept responsibility for any loss as a result of acts or omissions taken in respect of this article.
Ask a free legal question
Complete this simple form if you
would like to ask us a
free legal question
What Our Clients Say
We would like to thank you for the superb work and attention to detail that has gone into our dispute with the council so far!
Our Architect put together a very professional document which was further enhanced and polished by your very professional input.
You are in fact unique in my personal experience of the legal profession in that you take your duty of care very seriously. It is obvious that the outcome concerns you greatly and your determination to win is much appreciated!
Thank you from us both.
Best Regards
Mr and Mrs X, Surrey