Garfield Wilson, a 56-year-old grandfather from Birmingham, has been found guilty of five counts of fraud by false representation after using a dead man's bank card to make purchases totalling £220.09. The offences occurred following a fatal drug overdose at Wilson's home in Edgbaston.
Details of the Incident
On March 29 last year, Wilson took drugs with Martin Kutsanzira at his residence on Benmore Avenue in Edgbaston. After Mr Kutsanzira suffered a fatal overdose, Wilson used his sister's bank card to make five transactions. The purchases included items from Tesco, Nike, KFC, and an Esso petrol station.
Court Proceedings
Prosecutor Alexandra Youster told Birmingham Magistrates' Court: "There was a high level of impact – the victim was particularly vulnerable as he was deceased. I don't think he could get more vulnerable." Wilson, who now lives in London, denied the charges but was found guilty in April. The court heard that Wilson has since stopped taking illegal substances and has the support of his family, including nine children and two grandchildren.
Sentence and Compensation
Magistrates handed Wilson an 18-month community order with 25 rehabilitation activity requirement days. He was also ordered to pay a £120 fine, a £114 surcharge, £220.09 in compensation, and £300 in costs.
