Carer Jailed for Stealing £8,000 in Jewelry from Elderly Client
Secret cameras captured Lara Jones stealing from a vulnerable victim on her second shift.
Lara Jones, 50, has been sentenced to three years in prison for stealing approximately £8,000 worth of jewelry from an elderly client.
Jones was caught on hidden cameras rummaging through the pensioner's drawers and wardrobe on November 26, 2025, during her second shift as a carer. The victim's family had become suspicious after noticing an earring on the stairs and subsequently discovered that several expensive items were missing from the jewelry box.
On December 3, 2025, the victim's daughter reported to the police that the new carer was seen going through the bedroom drawers and cupboards. Jones was arrested, and the stolen items were recovered during a search.
Jones pleaded not guilty but was convicted of three counts of burglary at Guildford Crown Court on October 9. In addition to her prison sentence, she was ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £228.
The victim's family expressed their devastation at the violation of trust, stating, "Having someone violate your trust in your own home, at a time when you are at your most vulnerable, is devastating. The emotional impact has been profound, and it has made an already difficult situation even harder." They also conveyed gratitude to Surrey Police and the Crown Prosecution Service for their work in securing the conviction.
Detective Constable Jen Trudel commented on the case, noting the emotional impact on the family and the resulting wariness of allowing new caregivers into their home. "Hopefully this will allow them some closure so that they can move on with their lives," Trudel added.