A WREXHAM mum took money from a vulnerable man’s bank account in order to buy food and drugs, a court heard.

Shona Marsh, aged 31 and of Troedle in Ponciau, appeared at Mold Crown Court on Wednesday for sentencing.

She had admitted theft and fraud offences at a previous hearing.

Brian Treadwell, prosecuting, told the court the vulnerable Wrexham victim Terrance Reeves went to get his bank cards on April 28 last year and found they were missing.

When he checked with his bank, he was told £500 had been withdrawn over several transactions.

Marsh was identified as the person making the withdrawals on CCTV.

Mr Treadwell said after being arrested she admitted stealing the bank cards and had spent the money on food and drugs.

Andrew Green, defending, said Marsh has a “history of addiction” but gave birth to a son in December and has been engaging with a detox programme.

“She’s now housed in independent living,” he said, “and there is a social worker on hand 24/7.

“People are helping her to develop daily routines to function normally.

“She tells me she has made the choice not to take any more illegal drugs.

“Only time will tell.”

He added the bank has since repaid Mr Reeves for his losses.

Judge Niclas Parry told her: “This was a disgusting, despicable offence - especially targeting a very vulnerable man.

“I’ll leave it there, but this matter is so serious that only a custodial sentence can be justified.

“I bear in mind the effort you have made to change your life.”

Judge Niclas Parry handed her an eight month sentence on each of the four fraud offences to run concurrently, but suspended it for 18 months.

He issued no further punishment, telling Marsh the suspended sentence would be “hanging over” her.

However the Judge did order Marsh to carry out 20 days of rehabilitation activity, as well as 30 sessions on an accredited programme.

Marsh was also made the subject of a five year restraining order prohibiting her from contacting Mr Reeves or going within 50 yards of his home.