Investigation into Wolverhampton care home thefts abandoned
An investigation into thefts from a care home has been dropped after police decided not to push for the culprit to be charged.
Police arrested a 40-year-old woman in connection with thefts of money from residents at Holme Bank Residential Home in Tettenhall, Wolverhampton, but only issued a caution after the force said the money was repaid.
The daughter of one of the residents has labelled the decision ‘disgraceful’.
The home has since shut down because of concerns raised by health watchdog the Care Quality Commission, not related to the thefts.
An unannounced visit was made on August 30 followed by a full inspection on September 4 and 5.
Concerns surrounded management, administration of medication and meeting residents’ dietary needs, particularly with people who have swallowing difficulties.
Pauline Walker-Shelton, from Perton, who was forced to find new accommodation for her 90-year-old mother after the closure, said she was appalled by the decision not to prosecute the woman, who has not been identified by police.
Thefts over a three-month period were investigated by police, who described the crimes as ‘low-level’. The thefts are thought to have ranged from a few pounds up to around £200.
The caution means the woman will not be formally prosecuted.
Mrs Walker-Shelton said: “I think it’s an absolute disgrace alongside everything else that has gone on.
“The police have to do a job and they have to decide whether it is worth their while.
"However, there is a bigger picture to be looked at and that’s what’s concerning. I heard comments about money going missing or not being there when it should have been there.”
West Midlands Police confirmed money had been stolen at the home but said it had since been given back. The force said it had issued a caution and decided to take no further action.
A West Midlands Police spokeswoman: “Officers investigating several reports of low level thefts between May 23 and August 23 at the Holme Bank Residential Home in Stockwell Road in Wolverhampton, arrested a 40-year-old woman on September 11.
“Following inquiries, the woman was given a caution and all money was repaid to the victims.”
