Grandad stealing money - what to do?

[DottyBag]

Hi

My Grandad is in his 80s and we have reason to believe he is an opportunistic thief.

A few days ago I was at my Mum's and my Granny and Grandad visited. Mum and Granny went outside, and during that time I saw my Grandad going into my parents bedroom, for a few moments.

I wondered if he was going to the bathroom, but they have a toilet in the hall which visitors tend to use, rather than there en suite.

Anyhow, last night my Dad realised that a large wad of £50 notes had disappeared from his bedside table. I was in the en suite tidying after the kids baths, and heard him sigh "Oh No!"

Apparently there are numerous times where money has gone missing, and a few years ago he cleared out my Granny's account. I don't know what he spends the money on but they live very frugally.

Feel so bad that I didn't confront him, and not sure what to do. Mum and Dad want to leave it, and just not have money lying about, but I'm so mad that they have been violated in this way by a close relative.

What should I do?

[trumpton]

Their money. Their parent. Their house. Their choice how to handle it. You can only support them in that decision. It's a very. sad and horrid situation.

[InterestedinMoving]

This happened to me with someone who came into my house. I could not prove it so did nothing. I would never leave money anywhere that someone could help themselves to it again.

[DottyBag]

He is not as mentally sharp, but he's not senile - still driving etc. Mum thinks it's been going on for years.

[AttilaTheMeerkat]

I would not leave this but its your parents decision ultimately on whether they pursue it or otherwise. My nan froze out the person who stole from her because apart from anything else it is a betrayal of trust.

His age is no excuse; if he did take the money he needs to take the consequences. I would get the police involved; we are not talking small change here.

[ILovedYou]

Agree with trumpton. Feel for you though. Good luck, do not leave your valuables out of your sight when grandad is in the vacinity.

[Karia]

What did your nan do when he cleared out her account?

If he has been doing this for a very long time (ie you don't think its a recent change), I would tell your mum and dad to sit down with your nan and granddad and tell them what they suspect.

Just because he is elderly does not mean he can use it as an excuse to get away with it.