A CIRENCESTER woman has been sentenced to a 12 month community order at Swindon Magistrates Court after admitting one count of theft from employee and one count of fraud by false representation.

Claire Jayne Thompson, 37, had been employed as a cleaner by Wendy and David Brown at their home in Cricklade.

Between October 2012 and 22nd March 2013 Thompson stole a large amount of jewellery from them, totaling £1,500.

She also stole a credit card belonging to the Brown family and then used it to make a number of fraudulent online purchases to the total value of £630.

She was sentenced to a 12 month community order to participate in a 20 day female offender course and to pay £405 compensation to Marks and Spencer Bank and £300 to Mrs Brown.

Local Crime Investigator Sarah-Jane Bolt, who led the investigation, said: “Thompson used her position of trust to make her own financial gain from a couple good enough to employ her.

“Not only did she steal a credit card and use this to rack up large debts, she also stole a number of items of jewellery which held great sentimental value to the Brown family.

“Thompson preyed on the good nature of Mr and Mrs Brown, abused their friendship and showed no regard for them whatsoever.

“I would always urge anyone who has information on any suspicious activity to contact Wiltshire Police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where information can be left anonymously.”