Care fraudster targeted own mother, court hears

The actions of a care company boss who defrauded elderly service users, including his own mother, caused a "lasting and distressing impact", his brother has said.

Peter Hunter, 58, assumed power of attorney for his victims before using the position to pay money into his personal bank account, Leeds Crown Court heard.

Hunter previously pleaded guilty to four counts of fraud by abuse of position.

Giles Hunter told the court his brother's crimes had caused a family divide that was "one of the hardest things I've ever had to face".

It had been "deeply upsetting" to confront Peter Hunter once allegations came to light, he added, and had created tension within the wider family.

Prosecutor James Lake told the court that Hunter "financially exploited elderly, vulnerable and isolated members of the community" instead of safeguarding them.

While offering care services through Caring for You (Yorkshire) Limited, the Wakefield-based businessman became power of attorney for two of his victims.

Once he had access to their bank accounts, he used the funds to pay invoices from his care company, Lake said.

He also transferred money into his personal account and withdrew cash.

In the case of his mother, he became appointee and collected her benefits and winter fuel allowance, the court heard.

The offences were said to have been committed between 2011 and 2021.

The court also heard from the daughter of one of Hunter's victims.

She described her mother as a "vulnerable woman, alone and in need of care" and said she remained "deeply upset" that trust had been placed in Hunter.

The full amount of money Hunter took from his victims is still being contested.

The case was adjourned for sentencing at a later date.

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