Adviser jailed for three years after 250k theft

The victim had become "vulnerable through illness" when Jonathan Pollard arranged for a Power of Attorney to be taken out relating to his financial affairs, and remortgaged his flat.

 On 8 October last year, Pollard was convicted at Lewes Crown Court following a trial, of two offences of theft, totalling £205,000.00 in 2006.

Pollard was sentenced to three years imprisonment after funds in his client's pension to the value of £215,000 were withdrawn without his knowledge or agreement.

A police financial investigator carried out a thorough examination of Pollard's financial affairs and assets and on 26 September this year, at the same Court a Confiscation Order under the Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA) was made for £254,306.79, the entire amount to be paid to the victim. This figure includes an extra £49,306.79 to take account of the increase in the value of money since the time of the offence.

Pollard was given 21 days to pay £57,000.00 and six months to pay the remainder. Should there be any delays he will be liable to three years further imprisonment and the debt will increase with interest charges.
 
Detective Inspector Mick Richards of the Sussex Police Economic Crime Unit said:

"Pollard was first brought to justice thanks to the hard work of detectives in the force's East Sussex Adult Protection Team.
 
"Once he was sentenced we carried out an in-depth investigation of his assets, and this enabled us to submit an application which the court fully accepted.
 
"We hope this is of further assistance and comfort to the victim and his family, and it also demonstrates that we can and will pursue offenders beyond conviction, for their ill-gotten gains."