Police have warned that those who commit crime against vulnerable people will be brought before a court following the conviction of a former care worker today.

Bradford and Keighley magistrates today found Sarah Bonner, 39, guilty of stealing from 84-year-old Constance Lancaster for whom she was providing care.

Mrs Lancaster, who died earlier this year, told police she was “shocked and hurt” by Bonner's abuse of her trust, the court heard.

Bonner, of Aireville Terrace, Burley-in-Wharfedale, was sentenced to a four-month curfew, and fined £200 with £60 costs.

Speaking after the case, Detective Inspector Mark Long, of Bradford District Safeguarding Unit, said: “We are satisfied with this conviction and hope it will bring some closure to what has been a difficult situation for Mrs Lancaster’s family.

“Mrs Lancaster was completely taken in by Bonner’s caring and polite nature, which made the theft even more despicable.

“Bradford District has a dedicated team of investigators specialising in this area of crime and we will do our best to make people in care safer and feel safer.

“Any allegations of crimes made by victims in care or their families, will be investigated thoroughly and those found to have committed offences will be dealt with at court.”

Mrs Lancaster's daughter, Janette Jones, said: “I’m very happy with how the police have investigated this crime.

"I hope that now Bonner is convicted she will not be allowed to work with vulnerable people again.”