A Kent mother and daughter received immediate prison sentences after stealing a vulnerable woman’s bank card and going on a shopping spree in Maidstone town centre.
The Betrayal of Trust
A mother and daughter from Maidstone are behind bars tonight after they exploited a vulnerable woman’s trust by stealing her bank card while pretending to be her carer. Kathlene Perry, 61, and Siobhan Perry, 43, both pleaded guilty at Maidstone Crown Court on 29 May 2026. The court heard how they used the stolen card to go on a shopping spree in Maidstone town centre in November 2025.
This wasn’t some slick cyber-crime. These were people the victim trusted – who used that position to steal from her for their own benefit.
How the Investigation Unfolded
Kent Police investigators reportedly built their case through analysis of the shopping spree incident in November 2025. The evidence revealed the theft of the victim’s bank card while the defendants were pretending to be her carer.
Officers also gathered witness statements that showed just how much the victim relied on the duo. The investigation revealed how the pair had dishonestly abused their position – taking the bank card whilst the victim depended on them.
Justice Delivered
Both women pleaded guilty at Maidstone Crown Court, with Kathlene Perry, 61, receiving 3 years and 3 months imprisonment, while Siobhan Perry, 43, was sentenced to 9 months. The sentencing judge reportedly highlighted the betrayal of trust and the impact on the victim’s wellbeing.
The case represents justice for the vulnerable victim who trusted the defendants as her carers.
Warning Signs to Watch
Financial abuse within existing relationships proves harder to spot than stranger fraud. There are warning signs Kent residents should watch for: sudden changes in a vulnerable person’s spending patterns, unusual levels of control over their money by one individual. Or the victim appearing fearful – over-reliant on someone for financial decisions.
Why does this matter so much?
Because fraud against vulnerable people removes money from those who can least afford it. Often people on fixed incomes with limited opportunity to recover financially.
Key Takeaways
- Mother and daughter duo from Maidstone jailed for stealing bank card from vulnerable victim
- Investigation revealed stolen bank card used for shopping spree in Maidstone town centre in November 2025
- Case demonstrates Kent Police’s commitment to protecting vulnerable residents from financial exploitation
What This Means for Kent Residents
The successful prosecution sends a clear deterrent message that exploiting vulnerable people will result in serious consequences, including immediate imprisonment. Families, neighbours and care professionals across Kent should remain alert to signs of financial abuse, chiefly sudden changes in spending patterns or unusual control over someone’s money. If you suspect financial abuse, report it to Kent Police on 101 or Action Fraud, or contact local adult social care services where safeguarding concerns exist.
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