Axminster man admits defrauding vulnerable sister of more than £5,000
Report by Duncan Williams for Pulman's Weekly News
An Axminster man has admitted fraud offences after accessing his vulnerable sister’s bank account and transferring himself more than £5,000.
James Wood, 47, of Cloakham Drive, appeared before Exeter Magistrates’ Court, where he pleaded guilty to fraud by false representation between 22nd March and 10th October, 2024.
The court heard that Wood used his younger sister’s account to make purchases and transfer money to himself, totalling £5,005.
Prosecutor Werjinder Baines said the victim is particularly vulnerable due to learning difficulties and relies on her father to manage her finances.
In a victim personal statement read to the court, the woman described the emotional impact of the offence.
She said: “I just want to know why he did it and where the money has gone. He wouldn’t do it to his wife, so why his own sister?
“I don’t want to see him or speak to him because I will just get upset.”
District Judge Smith adjourned sentencing to allow the probation service to prepare a pre-sentence report.
Wood was granted unconditional bail and is due to appear again before Exeter Magistrates’ Court on 30th July.
The case was reported as part of the Police and Crime Commissioner’s Criminal Justice Court Reporting Scheme.