Council recovers £46,000 in a financial abuse case of vulnerable resident

The case involved a family member, Adrian Hilton, who held power of attorney over his elderly mother’s finances. Although she retained the mental capacity to make her own decisions, Mr Hilton sold her property and used the proceeds to partially pay for her care home fees, before diverting the remaining funds to purchase a property for himself. 

Due to Mr Hilton’s fraud and misappropriation of funds, the Council was forced to step in and cover the cost of his mother’s care. The matter was referred to the police, who launched a full investigation. The suspect’s assets, including his car and home, were frozen under the Proceeds of Crime Act.

Initially pleading not guilty in 2024, Mr Hilton later changed his plea to guilty ahead of the trial. The court ordered that the property he purchased be sold, with proceeds used to repay the outstanding care home fees and reimburse the Council £46,000. Mr Hilton has been sentenced for 32 months for the financial abuse of his mother. 
Tragically, Mrs Hilton passed away between the initial hearing and the trial, so was unable to witness the outcome of the case and justice for herself. 

Cllr Paul Bell, Cabinet Member for Health and Adult Social Care, said: 

“This case is a stark reminder of the importance of safeguarding vulnerable adults and the serious consequences of financial abuse. This is excellent work by both the Council and Police to investigate and pursue, showing that we have absolutely no tolerance of fraud and abuse of power.  

“We are committed to protecting our residents and will always take action where wrongdoing is identified. We are pleased that justice has been served and that public funds will be recovered.” 

The Council continues to work closely with law enforcement and safeguarding partners to ensure that those who exploit vulnerable individuals are held accountable. 

If you suspect a fraud, you can report it: 

• on our fraud page
• by email to our Anti-Fraud Corruption Team at reportfraud@lewisham.gov.uk
• via telephone on 020 8314 7909