Man jailed for defrauding friend

A FRAUDSTER who stole money from a vulnerable man after striking up a friendship with him has gone to prison for 26 months.

Charles Ward (42), was found guilty of six counts of fraud and one of theft. He befriended his victim at Christmas 2011 and was invited back to the victim’s flat for a drink. The victim, who felt sorry for Ward, often let him sleep at the flat. Ward helped out with chores and the victim - who didn’t want to leave the flat due to severe depression - would give him his bank card to buy shopping.

Ward, of Lychgate Court, Holts, initially denied the charges and was due to appear at Oldham Magistrates’ Court, and was found guilty in his absence after failing to appear.

The charges related to cash withdrawals in June 2012, of around £510. The victim only realise money was missing after checking his bank balance.

In April 2012, Ward brought friend Vicky Dawson to the flat and after she left, the victim noticed his phone and wallet were missing.

Dawson pleaded guilty at a separate hearing.

Ward has 16 previous convictions of a similar nature. Magistrate Christine Bowden said: “The only option is custody.”