A CARER took almost £2,700 in cash by using the bank card of a vulnerable person she was looking after.

Claire Emerton, of Manor View in Par, near St Austell, took cash out using the person’s bank card when she was not authorised to on five separate occasions.

The 48-year-old, who withdrew large sums from local supermarkets, took out a total of £2,650.

Emerton, who was arrested and charged with five counts of fraud, pleaded guilty to all charges against her in July when she appeared before Bodmin Magistrates Court.

The magistrates sentenced the carer to 12 months in prison suspended for two years, 100 hours of unpaid work and £1,000 compensation.

In their sentencing note, the magistrates commented: "This is an incredibly disturbing case, you have deliberately targeted someone vulnerable for whom you were supposed to be caring.

"This was sustained and repeated. This was a particularly vulnerable victim and it has had a significant impact on them and their family. There is no doubt this matter has crossed the custody threshold."

“You have a previous caution for another dishonesty offence. However, you have shown remorse, co-operated fully with the investigation including making early admissions in your police interview, you also pleaded guilty at the first opportunity.

“However, we believe there is a reasonable prospect of rehabilitation if you work with the probation service.”