Joyce Moore stole more than a National Lottery ticket and cash from severely disabled Graham Thody.

By tricking a man who considered her to be a friend, she took away his sense of trust.

That is why the paltry fine and community penalty handed out to the mother-of-three has enraged Mr Thody and the police who investigated her crime.

Moore preyed on Thody's vulnerability and her actions have had an enduring effect on a man who is battling against the odds to live a normal, independent life.

He offered her kindness when she called at his door and she repaid him with betrayal.

This was not lost on the crown court judge who told her in no uncertain terms that her actions were "distressing and disturbing".

But the only message those like Moore will take away from this sad story is that the most vulnerable members of our society appear to be fair game.