Mum stole grandfather's bank card to fund £600-a-week crack habit in 'disgraceful' action

A woman's actions have been branded "nothing short of disgraceful" after she stole from her to fund a habit.

Kelly Thomas stole her grandfather's bank card to help fund her £600-per-week crack cocaine habit, Crown Court heard. The court was told how she forced her way into his home after spending years previously asking the 75-year-old for money to pay for her habit. The court heard how the pensioner had often handed over money due to his love for his granddaughter.

The mum, 33, was sentenced to 12 months in prison for ABH, , and fraud after pleading guilty. As she was sentenced, a judge told her her treatment of her grandfather was "nothing short of disgraceful". They added Thomas faced a "bleak future" if she continues on the path she is on.

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She was told she will serve up to half of her sentence in custody before being released on licence to serve the remainder in the community. Dean Pulling, prosecuting, said the complainant in the case had largely brought up Thomas with his late wife. They explained "difficult family circumstances" at home had led to the situation.

However, he added that in the grandfather's own words, Thomas had "go down the wrong path" as she got older. He said the grandfather had watched as Thomas began "mixing with the wrong people" and taking drugs. Such were her actions, her own children were removed from her care.

Pulling continued to say Thomas would often approach her grandparents for cash to purchase drugs. Such was his love for her, the grandfather admitted he would often hand over amounts between £20 to £100. Pulling quoted the grandfather as saying he did so because "he loves her dearly and feels sorry for her".

It was added that Thomas had always promised to pay back the money, but never stuck to her word.

Then, the court heard how on September 1 the grandfather handed Thomas more money. However, when she returned looking for more, her refused and didn't open the door. Later that night, he is said to have went to make sure the side gate of the property was locked and found his granddaughter waiting outside. She is said to have pushed her way into the property after forcing the door into her grandfather's face and splitting his lip in the process.

She is said to have put her hand in his pocket once inside the home and tried to take his wallet. She ended up removing his bank card and leaving. According to Wales Online, the court heard that a short time later the card was used to take £200 from an ATM machine. CCTV footage subsequently showed the person making the withdrawal was Thomas. She was arrested the following day.