A WOMAN who exploited elderly men for money has been jailed for a total of 44 months.

Rebecca Reeves, 34, of Liptrott Road, Chorley appeared at Preston Crown Court where she was given the custodial sentence as well as a five-year criminal anti-social behaviour order (CRASBO).

She had earlier pleaded guilty to burglary in a dwelling, when she stole £85 in cash and cigarettes, and theft in a dwelling, when Reeves and another person stole £15.

The victims of both offences were vulnerable elderly men.

Reeves was given the CRASBO on the back of the criminal conviction.

It came after officers gathered a catalogue of evidence to show she had been responsible for stealing from, and offering services to, vulnerable members of the community, including taking inappropriate sums of money to assist with domestic chores and also offering sexual services for financial rewards. It is thought that Reeves was one of a group of women who have targeted more than 40 victims.

The CRASBO bans her from entering any sheltered housing complex or supported living accommodation in the town.

It also states that she must not engage in any activity which amounts to the provision of, or offer to provide, any services for gain, either financial or otherwise.

She is also banned from being in possession of a bank card, credit card or other identification belonging to another person and acting in an anti-social behaviour in the town.

Reeves must not enter any private residence in Chorley occupied by anyone other than a family member to provide services and must not enter a private residence having been warned not to return by police.

Chorley Insp David Robinson said: “I hope that this result sends out a warning that we take this issue extremely seriousl.”