A KIDDERMINSTER woman with a history of preying on vulnerable and elderly victims has been jailed for defrauding an OAP out of £50k.

Jacqueline Ashberry, of James Road, became an unofficial carer for the elderly victim, a friend of 25 years, during which time she controlled her finances and defrauded her of an estimated £50k.

​Ashberry, aged 61, has been jailed for 35 months for fraud by abuse of position at Worcester Crown Court.

​The fraud was eventually discovered by the victim’s sons and reported to the police in April 2019, when the victim was 88-years-old.

Their suspicions stemmed from discovering that Ashberry had been charged with theft and fraud against another elderly person in 2019, for which she received a two year suspended prison sentence.

​Detective Constable James Green, officer in charge of the case for West Mercia Police, said “Jacqueline Ashberry has a history of preying on vulnerable victims, causing huge financial losses and much distress to both them and their families.

​“We are delighted with the significant custodial sentence, which will prevent her from causing harm to other vulnerable members of the community.

​“We take all reports of financial abuse and fraud very seriously and ensure that offenders are brought to justice.”

Ashberry was sentenced at Worcester Crown Court on Thursday (May 27).

Victims of fraud can get help from the Victim Advice Line - a free and confidential service offering advice, practical help and emotional support to people affected by crime, regardless how long ago it happened or whether it has been reported to the police.

Call 0800 9523000 or email at info@victimadviceline.org.uk