Housekeeper Turned Caregiver Accused of Stealing Over $205K from Elderly Victim

St. Petersburg detectives have arrested Delorse Boyd, 65, on charges of 1st Degree Elderly Exploitation after allegedly stealing approximately $205,762.60 from a disabled, wheelchair-bound elderly victim over several years.

The victim, who was 79 years old when the exploitation began, initially hired Boyd as a housekeeper. After undergoing surgery, the victim hired 24/7 home healthcare services and no longer required Boyd’s cleaning assistance. Boyd then took on responsibilities such as grocery shopping, bill payments, and picking up medications for the victim. Boyd was entrusted with the victim’s credit cards and checkbook during this time.

Between July 7, 2017, and September 1, 2021, Boyd allegedly wrote 176 unauthorized checks, using the funds to withdraw cash, make deposits into her own account, and pay personal bills. She also used the victim’s credit card for purchases totaling $20,045.58, including appliances, utility bills, ride-shares, phone bills, online orders, and travel expenses.

Investigators discovered that Boyd even wrote a $3,517.02 check from the victim’s account to the Pinellas County Clerk of Court to settle her own criminal and traffic offenses, including fines and tickets.

The financial exploitation was uncovered when the victim’s bank noticed suspicious transactions and reported them to law enforcement. The victim, now approximately 83 years old, suffered the theft of a significant portion of her finances during her vulnerable years.

St. Petersburg Economic Crimes detectives emphasize the importance of protecting oneself or loved ones from elderly financial exploitation. They provided these tips:

• Carefully select and appoint a Power of Attorney.
• Consult a trusted advisor before making financial decisions.
• Regularly check credit reports and review financial statements, especially for joint accounts.

The investigation remains ongoing as Boyd faces prosecution for her actions.

Full Article & Source:
Housekeeper Turned Caregiver Accused of Stealing Over $205K from Elderly Victim