Dylan Bandeira talked his way into the 87-year-old victim’s address in Redcar at the end of May last year under the guise of selling cleaning products. He attempted to persuade her to buy low-value items at an inflated price before stealing a large amount of cash.

While the lady was physically unharmed, she was extremely shaken and left feeling afraid in her own home.

After extensive enquiries Redcar & Cleveland CID identified Bandeira as the suspect and they arrested, charged and remanded him, all within a month.

Although Bandeira was given the opportunity to admit what he’d done, he persistently refused to do so meaning the victim had the further stress of a trial.

Speaking after sentencing at Teesside Crown Court on Friday, Detective Sergeant Chris Thurston said: “Bandeira’s actions in targeting a vulnerable elderly woman were despicable and all our officers were determined to bring him to justice.

“Our detectives worked extremely hard to identify him whilst achieving the best possible evidence to secure a charge and we’re all relieved he was found guilty by a jury on Friday.

“We all hope the lady gains some comfort knowing he is in prison, and we all wish her well going forward.”