Son and stepson stole £6k from terminally-ill dad

A “DISGRACEFUL” son has been convicted of stealing £6,000 from his own terminally-ill father while he was cared for at a hospice.

Richard Lucas (44) — and step-brother David Windle (47) — were caught on CCTV using the 70-year-old’s bank card in cash machines.

Investigating officer PC Lynn Robins said: “Over the course of a few months, while their father and stepfather was terminally-ill, these two systematically emptied his account without permission.

“Sadly, their victim died earlier this year without getting justice or any closure for this awful crime.

“This case illustrates that we will take action against those who target and exploit vulnerable people for financial gain.

“I am pleased that they admitted their guilt in court and accepted responsibility for their disgraceful behaviour.”

Lucas, of Roseberry Street, Ferham, and Windle of Cantilupe Crescent, Aston, were charged in October 2015.

They appeared at Sheffield Crown Court on Monday, when both were given a 12-month community order and told to pay costs. Lucas was given 80 hours’ unpaid work and Windle 60 hours.

A 45-year-old woman was charged with theft but faces no further action, police said.