A Mother Defrauds Veteran Sailing Club for £70,000 to Feed Gambling Addiction

In a troubling case that unfolded in Portsmouth Crown Court, 39-year-old Lyndsey Howell was revealed to have defrauded the Hornet Sailing Club, a haven for military veterans, of almost £70,000. The theft, which stretched over a period of 22 months, came to light after her manager noticed irregularities regarding her early payments, prompting a deeper investigation into the club’s financial transactions. Howell utilized her position as the financial services manager to create fake payment transfers and disguise her withdrawals as cash refunds to club members.

The impact of her actions was significant, as the club was not only left with a financial deficit but also faced an emotional fallout due to Howell's long-standing relationship with the organization. Having been involved with the club since her childhood, with her father and brother also working there, her betrayal felt particularly profound to the members. Rear Admiral Richard Stokes, the club's Commodore, expressed a sense of disbelief and disappointment over the breach of trust, especially since many members rely on their military pensions for income and the club aims to minimize paid staff.

During the hearing, it was disclosed that Howell's descent into gambling and substance abuse followed her divorce, which severely impacted her life and led to her criminal behavior. Her defense highlighted that her actions were out of character for someone who had been a loyal employee for nearly a decade. Ultimately, the judge acknowledged the severity of the offense but considered her personal hardships, resulting in a 12-month suspended sentence and a requirement for rehabilitation and community service.