An Isle of Wight carer has admitted defrauding his three vulnerable uncles of more than £13,000 to support his gambling habit and clear outstanding debts.
Jack Nicholson, of South Street, Ryde, appeared before Isle of Wight magistrates on Tuesday, February 24.
The 32-year-old pleaded guilty to fraud by abuse of position and theft from the person of another on the Isle of Wight between March 1 and May 4, 2024.
A representative for the Isle of Wight Council explained to the court that Nicholson worked as a personal assistant and carer for his three uncles, all of whom received individual care packages.
Nicholson had control over their separate care budgets and, over a period of two months, withdrew the entire allocated sums, transferring the money into his own bank account.
The court was told that £13,772.52 provided by the Isle of Wight Council for his uncle’s care was instead used to fuel Nicholson’s gambling addiction and repay debts.
According to the local authority, Nicholson employed a ruse to gain access to the funds, misled his brother, and relied on deception to hide what he had done.
Magistrates heard the offences had a significant negative impact on the three vulnerable men, resulting in a reduction in the care they received.
The case has been sent to the Isle of Wight Crown Court and adjourned until May 15.
Nicholson was released on unconditional bail, and magistrates requested a full pre-sentence probation report considering all sentencing options.