Woman from Northwich sentenced to five years for fraud

A 61-year-old woman has been sentenced to over five years in prison after pleading guilty to 12 offences of fraud.

Debbie Runnalls, from Wrenbury Drive, Northwich, Cheshire, was jailed at Lincoln Crown Court today, 19th February, following a conviction for fraud offences on 10th November.

According to Lincolnshire Police, Runnalls defrauded numerous victims and embezzled significant sums of money through elaborate deceitful stories.

Among the charges was an offence of fraud by abuse of position. Runnalls exploited her bookkeeping role in her ex-husband's company by falsifying accounts, resulting in the loss of about £230,000 which led to the firm's collapse.

Further charges relate to ten victims whom Runnalls deceived into giving her money under various pretences, including false claims of illness and abuse.

The sums taken ranged from £1,800 to £40,000, totaling £132,300.

During the investigation, it was revealed that Runnalls falsified bank statements and fabricated stories of inheriting large sums to manipulate people into parting with their money.

Detective Constable Adam Brown of Lincolnshire Police said the victims showed honesty and courage in stark contrast to Runnalls’ fraudulent actions. He expressed hope that the sentencing would offer some closure to those affected and warned the public to be cautious when trusting others, especially involving financial requests.

Runnalls faced charges including fraud by abuse of position, fraud by false representation, and possession of false bank statements.

She received a total sentence of five years and three months for fraud by abuse of position, along with concurrent sentences for other charges, ranging from four months to three years.