Judge says accused fraudster too dangerous to release

A 62-year-old Burnaby, B.C., woman will remain behind bars in Port Alberni over Christmas after a judge declared her a threat to seniors.

Judith Lynn Slobbe of Qualicum Beach faces 17 charges, including fraud over $5,000, theft, possession of stolen property, perjury and forgery allegedly committed in the Port Alberni area, 200 kilometres north of Victoria.

Slobbe asked for bail, telling the court Wednesday that she has to care for her 80-year-old husband. But the judge did not relent, saying she was a danger to elderly people in the community.

Police allege that, among other criminal acts, Slobbe borrowed large amounts of money from people without any intent to repay them.

Convicted of fraud in Richmond

"As we started into our investigation, we've been able to uncover several other victims," said RCMP Staff Sgt. Lee Omilusik.

Joyce Glover went to police claiming Slobbe borrowed hundreds of dollars and wouldn't pay it back.

"She has that smile about her and looks like a friendly, happy person," Glover said. "Judith had a way with people."

None of the latest allegations against Slobbe have been proved in court.

Slobbe is scheduled to be sentenced in Richmond in February after being convicted of defrauding a seniors care home of more than $800,000 in the late 1990s.