A WOMAN who repeatedly targeted pensioners in distraction burglaries has been sent to prison for more than two years.

Jennifer Donlan, of Northolt Court, Padgate appeared at Liverpool Crown Court on Wednesday, where she pleaded guilty to distraction burglary.

Frances Willmott, prosecuting, told the court how Donlan had approached a 74-year-old man in his home in the early hours of April 11 last year.

She said: “At 2.15am she knocked on the door on Avery Close and asked if she could borrow some tea bags.

“The man agreed but asked Donlan to stay outside and closed the door slightly.

“When he came back from the kitchen he noticed Donlan was in his living room and she told him she had been cold.”

The court heard how the victim later noticed that £40 out of the £80 in his wallet was missing.

The 38-year-old has 52 previous convictions for 174 offences which included targeting the elderly.

Donlan was staying at a friend’s house on the night who thought it was strange how Donlan went out for tea and coffee when he had both in the kitchen.

Kyra Badman, defending, said: “My client accepts that her intention was to steal from the premises.

“She has struggled with drug misuse for many years, she started taking drugs when she was 13 years old after an abusive relationship with an older man.”

Judge Neil Flewitt, said: “The house you chose to try your luck with was one occupied by an older gentleman and you have an appalling criminal record for a woman of 38.

“In recent years you have committed many similar offences. You have deceived the vulnerable and stolen from them and they have mostly been elderly.

“This is despicable behaviour and your track record shows you go on to commit further offences each time.

“I have no confidence that you will act on advice.”

Donlan was handed a 27-month prison sentence.