Fraudster who stole thousands of pounds from elderly and vulnerable victims is jailed

Gary Johnson, 46, formerly of Ossett, was sentenced to three years imprisonment at Leeds Crown Court yesterday after being convicted of three theft and fraud offences in which he deliberately targeted elderly and vulnerable victims.

Police are now beginning proceedings to seize Johnson’s criminal gains from him following the sentencing.

Among Johnson’s victims was a 61-year-old Ossett man who Johnson defrauded after stealing from his pension and bank books over a six year period.

PC Jamie Speight of Wakefield District Police, who investigated the case, said: “Gary Johnson made it his business to steal large sums of money from vulnerable and elderly members of society.

“The people he defrauded have been left deeply upset by his actions and it is no exaggeration to say his frauds have had hugely negative effects on their lives.

“He may well have offended before and there may be other victims out there whose losses have not been reported to police.

“If anyone suspects a friend, neighbour or family member is being subjected to fraud by those in positions of trust we would ask you report it to police.”