Couple Sentenced for Stealing Over £100,000 from Vulnerable Elderly Neighbor
A couple from Eccles, Lee Hodson (36) and Jennifer Picken (31), have been sentenced after exploiting their 76-year-old neighbor and defrauding him of more than £100,000 over the span of two years.
The couple was arrested in 2021 following an investigation that uncovered suspicious activity on the victim’s bank account, which included a withdrawal of £230,742.19. Despite being released on bail, they continued their fraudulent actions as the investigation unfolded.
A thorough investigation by Greater Manchester Police revealed that Hodson had managed to gain unauthorized access to the victim’s financial accounts, creating online accounts and posing as the elderly man. He manipulated the victim’s personal information, including sensitive documents, to pass security checks, allowing him to take control of the accounts.
Hodson used Picken’s bank account to launder the stolen money. In addition, he changed the victim’s details, including pensions and state benefits, ensuring that payments were diverted to his own account without triggering any security flags.
Detective Inspector Tim Flint of GMP’s Economic Crime Team described the fraud as “heartless” and “well-planned.” He pointed out that the couple preyed on the elderly victim due to his vulnerability, adding that their actions had devastating consequences. Tragically, the victim has passed away, leaving his surviving family members to endure the painful process of the trial.
Hodson, after pleading guilty to multiple charges including fraud, money laundering, impersonating a police officer, and burglary, was sentenced to 5 years and 4 months in prison. Picken received a suspended sentence of 22 months, along with 150 hours of community service.
Detective Inspector Flint urged the public to be vigilant and ensure that elderly relatives are aware of such scams to protect them from similar fraudulent schemes.
