Man jailed for stealing money from 85-year-old grandfather in Wells
47-year-old Peter Maughan from Greenfields Way in Weston-super-Mare watched the elderly man withdraw money before following his victim, and then stealing from him
A man has been jailed for stealing money from an 85-year-old grandfather in Wells.
Peter Maughan, 47, from Greenfields Way in Weston-super-Mare was given 12 months behind bars at Bristol Crown Court after previously admitting conspiracy to steal.
Back on 11 September this year, the court heard how he watched the victim withdraw money from a bank in Wells, followed him as he drove off, and then stole from him later on that day.
Maughan handed himself in to police later that month.
Some of the stolen money was recovered, and Maughan was ordered to pay compensation to make up the total within six months.
Two others arrested in connection with the incident were released with no further action.
Investigating officer PC Jim Card said: "The vehicle Maughan used was displaying false registration plates and he waited outside the bank for a vulnerable target, following him for several miles before seizing the opportunity for his unknown accomplice to complete the theft.
"This shows a level of planning and callous deliberation in selecting an elderly and clearly frail person as his victim."
The pensioner was not seriously hurt, but police say he was left shocked following the incident.
If you are concerned for yourself or for a vulnerable older friend or family member, you are urged to visit the Avon and Somerset Police - Keeping Yourself Safe site.