Keokuk woman convicted on theft charge

QUINCY, Ill. (WGEM) - A Keokuk woman accused of financially exploiting an elderly family member was found guilty of theft Wednesday, according to court records.

Laura Hawkins was scheduled for a jury trial this week, but records show she waived that right and a bench trial was held instead. Records show Hawkins was then found guilty of theft and is scheduled for sentencing in September.

According to court records, two counts of financial exploitation of the elderly over $15,000 were dismissed.

Police said Hawkins was the power of attorney for a 77-year-old family member who was a resident at Sycamore Healthcare in Quincy. Authorities said Sycamore officials informed them Hawkins was possibly financially exploiting the resident.

Police said the investigation determined Hawkins misused thousands of dollars belonging to the victim.

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Keokuk woman convicted on theft charge