Kelly Kershaw, a long-term employee of the Caernarfon Nationwide Building Society branch, has admitted to five counts of fraud after stealing from vulnerable customers to fund a lavish lifestyle.
Kershaw, 54, of Nefyn, Gwynedd, was discovered after colleagues noticed her social media posts depicting numerous expensive holidays and luxury purchases that appeared to exceed her means.
Nationwide Building Society Fraud
During an internal investigation that began in October 2024, it was suspected that Kershaw had been forging customer signatures and processing cash withdrawals without the customers’ knowledge.
Prosecutor Huw Evans stated that Kershaw targeted some of the branch’s most vulnerable clients. Victims included an 85-year-old stroke victim and a 49-year-old man with learning difficulties who had previously been a victim of fraud.
Kershaw had been a trusted member of the staff for 18 years. Despite a monthly take-home pay of £1,400, her Facebook profile described her as “living and loving life one adventure at a time.”
Evidence from her social media included photos of sailing, skiing, and trips to Dubai, Paris, Tuscany, the Caribbean, and a safari in Africa. Posts also featured a BMW convertible with a personalized number plate.
Court Proceedings and Defense
Appearing at Caernarfon Magistrates’ Court, Kershaw admitted to the fraud charges. While Nationwide has already reimbursed the victims, compensation of £8,630 was sought.
Defense solicitor Michael Strain said Kershaw had moved to a close-knit community to start afresh before developing an illness. He stated that she is sorry and “genuinely doesn’t know” what caused her to behave in this manner.
Kershaw claimed she suffered from a “compulsive shopping addiction” and used the funds to pay household bills and give money to beggars, though she acknowledged spending the money on international travel.
The probation service described the offenses as “despicable.” Kershaw has been bailed until May 8, when she is scheduled to be sentenced.
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