Carer found guilty of fraud

The directors of a long established family-run home care agency today spoke of their shock and anger after a former member of staff was found guilty of fraud. 

Melanie Harris, from Fremington, was convicted of the crime when she appeared before Exeter Crown Court.

Harris, aged 44, spent thousands of pounds belonging to a vulnerable client to support her own lifestyle.

Emily Whittaker, a Director and Registered Care Manager of Cygnet Care (Devon) Limited, said she was horrified when the crime was uncovered.

She said: “We were devastated when the crime came to light but thankful that our policies and strict procedures helped to expose the wrongdoing.

“These were the actions of one individual and someone we had previously trusted. Mrs Harris had been a member of the team for nine years and had not once caused us any concern prior to this incident.”

Miss Whittaker said the care agency over the past 22-years had built up an enviable reputation for providing top quality care in the community.

She added that the whistle-blowing policies that the company had in place and the swift action taken once the crime was discovered had helped bring Harris to justice.

Harris was suspended by the company as soon as concerns were raised by other members of staff, and the matter reported to police.

Miss Whittaker added: “We would like to most sincerely apologise to Helen Carter for what she and Edward went through at the hands of Mrs Harris and to thank the police and the Crown Prosecution Service for all their support and hard work.”

Harris will appear before the court to be sentenced on Friday 15th January 2016.