A fraudster has been jailed for taking more than £1,500 from two elderly Penrith women for work at their homes which he failed to do.
Lee Morgan, 33, was first asked to complete outdoor improvements at the address of a 93-year-old town resident last October.
He quoted £2,000 and asked for £1,400 up front in order to buy materials.
The woman handed that sum to Morgan, who visited her home to start work which he did not complete.
When attempts were made to recoup the woman’s cash, Morgan produced a bogus bank document which claimed money had been repaid when it had not.
“I don’t have much money. What money I spent on this I’ve saved for a few years,” the pensioner said in an impact statement. “It has made me more nervous about people coming to my home.”
Morgan also took £190 from the woman’s 74-year-old neighbour for work that was never done.
Morgan, of Victoria House, Penrith, admitted two charges of fraud by false representation.
He further admitted driving while disqualified and having no insurance on 21st August; and also failing to comply with a previously imposed court requirement.
A solicitor representing Morgan — a married dad-of-two — said he had intended to do the work for the two women. But instead he prioritised significant personal debts which had built up.
District judge John Temperley noted Morgan’s previous convictions included two for theft by employee, and concluded he had taken advantage of older woman’s advanced years and vulnerability.
The judge imposed an immediate 32-week prison sentence, saying: “Whilst I know this will have a significant impact on your family, I’m afraid it doesn’t outweigh the seriousness of the offences.”
Morgan must serve a six-month driving ban when released from custody, and pay full compensation to the two victims of his fraud.
