A woman, Pamela Gwinnett, age 63, has been sentenced to six years and two months in prison for theft and fraud. She stole nearly £300,000 from 89-year-old Joan Green in Lancashire by pretending to be her friend and carer during the Covid-19 pandemic. Gwinnett used the money for personal expenses, including Botox treatments, a car worth £22,500, lavish meals, and property mortgages. Joan Green sadly passed away in 2022.

Gwinnett fled to Tenerife in April 2025 while awaiting trial and was convicted in absentia in October of the same year. She was extradited back to the UK last week and sentenced by Preston Crown Court. Judge Michael Maher criticized Gwinnett for her actions, stating that she exploited Joan Green like a “cash cow” and showed contempt for the legal process.

Dubbed the “Black Widow,” Gwinnett manipulated Joan Green into granting her Power of Attorney, enabling her to control the victim’s finances. She alienated Joan from her family by changing locks and phone numbers, exerting control over her life. Carers witnessed Gwinnett mistreating Joan and neglecting her basic needs.

Despite having her Power of Attorney revoked in 2022, Gwinnett managed to open a joint bank account with Joan, continuing her financial exploitation. She stole a total of £296,173.68 saved by Joan and her late husband Stanley. Greater Manchester Police confirmed Gwinnett’s arrest in Tenerife and her subsequent extradition to the UK.

PC Georgia Loughton expressed satisfaction with Gwinnett’s return for sentencing, highlighting the harm caused by her actions. Chief Superintendent Helen Critchley emphasized the police’s commitment to pursuing those who exploit vulnerable individuals. Gwinnett’s sentencing aims to bring justice to Joan’s family as they seek closure and healing.