A ‘DESPICABLE’ woman preyed on the elderly and fleeced them out of cash and valuable personal possessions.

Karima Burnett targeted pensioners in Hastings, conning them into thinking she was vulnerable and needed help to get to Aberdeen.

She walked a 90-year-old man to a cash point to steal £200, and days later returned with an unknown man to demand more cash be handed over.

Police also received a report from an 87-year-old woman, who said Burnett rifled through her purse and stolen a wedding ring and engagement ring belonging to her late husband.

Unemployed Burnett, 32, of no fixed address, was jailed for a total of five years at Lewes Crown Court, and apparently showed “no remorse” for her victims.

Her offences included fraud, burglary, and attempted robbery.

Investigating officer Laura Pratt said: “We’re delighted that justice has been served against a despicable woman who preyed on the vulnerable, by convincing them she was vulnerable herself.

“She showed no remorse for her actions and was clearly intent on stealing whatever she could by any means possible.

“We would urge anyone, including elderly residents and their friends, family and neighbours – to be vigilant, and not to be fooled by false stories such as these.”