Monday, February 17, 2025

Pennsylvania Couple Accused of Locking Elderly Woman in Basement and Splurging Her Savings

by Zainuddin Harinder


HARRISBURG, PA
— A York County husband and wife are facing multiple charges, including allegations of neglect and financial exploitation, following claims that they abandoned a care-dependent woman in a basement while misusing her finances.

Ashlee Brady and Brian Brady, both 32, of Hanover, have been accused of leaving Ashlee’s mother, a care-dependent elderly woman, in the basement of her home under unsafe and unsanitary conditions in February 2024. Emergency Medical Services discovered the victim after a relative placed a call for assistance.

According to investigators, the victim was allegedly left alone, locked behind a dog gate in a corner of the basement with limited food and water. The couple is accused of taking an overnight trip with their children while leaving the woman in this condition.

Further investigation revealed allegations of financial exploitation. Prosecutors allege the couple misused over $10,000 of the victim’s funds for personal expenses, such as vacations and alcohol. Additionally, Brian Brady is accused of submitting false hours for Medicaid reimbursement through his employment, claiming to have provided care services that were not rendered.

Ashlee Brady, who served as her mother’s power of attorney, faces charges of financial exploitation, neglect, conspiracy, perjury, and intimidating a witness. Brian Brady, a paid caregiver for the victim, is charged with similar offenses, including multiple counts of Medicaid fraud.

Attorney General Dave Sunday called the acts “disturbing,” stating, “These defendants were family members entrusted with this victim’s care and financial well-being. My office is committed to protecting Pennsylvania’s most vulnerable residents.”

The defendants are scheduled for a preliminary hearing on March 27.

Authorities remind the public that charges are merely allegations, and both Ashlee and Brian Brady are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.

Full Article & Source:
Pennsylvania Couple Accused of Locking Elderly Woman in Basement and Splurging Her Savings

Marion County woman faces charges

A Jasper woman has been indicted and arrested, following a joint investigation by special agents with the TBI Medicaid Fraud Control Division and detectives with the South Pittsburg Police Department.

In July 2024, following a referral from Adult Protect Services, agents and detectives began investigating reports of irregularities in financial records of some residents of a South Pittsburg health care facility. During the course of the investigation, agents developed information that from May 2022 through July 2024, the company’s then-business manager, Ashley Pickett, was responsible for the financial exploitation of four of the residents there. Pickett is no longer employed at the facility.

On Feb. 3, the Marion County Grand Jury returned an indictment charging Ashley Nicole Pickett, 38, with two counts of Financial Exploitation of an Elderly/ Vulnerable Person $10,000-$60,000, two counts of Financial Exploitation of an Elderly/ Vulnerable Person $2,500-$10,000 and one count of Forgery. Pickett was arrested and booked into the Marion County Jail on a $75,000 bond.

The charges and allegations referenced in this release are merely accusations of criminal conduct and not evidence. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt and convicted through due process of law.

Full Article & Source:
Marion County woman faces charges

Keeping Seniors Safe From Scams and Fraud With the NJ State Library

From robocalls and fraudulent texts to phishing, identity theft, and more, scams are a pervasive and prevalent piece of the digital age. Each year, countless time, resources, and funds are lost thanks to fraudsters who prey upon the most vulnerable members of our communities. While anyone can fall victim to a scam, this issue is of particular concern for our senior population. With new healthcare scams and schemes popping up every day, there has never been a more important time to remain vigilant, educated, and alert of the signs of fraudulent activity. For those seeking to keep themselves and their loved ones safe from harm, equipping yourself with knowledge is the best protection you can employ against those seeking to do harm. And with the help of the New Jersey State Library’s upcoming webinar, you’ll be savvy to scams in no time.

On Tuesday, February 25th, the New Jersey State Library will be hosting “Scams and Frauds for Seniors”. This informative conversation will take place virtually from 12pm to 1pm on Zoom. Your host for the afternoon will be Michael Rosati, who will be representing the New Jersey Medicaid Fraud Control Unit. This discussion will cover a variety of important topics, including the various types of scams criminals employ today, as well as practical tips and strategies to utilize in your own life to better protect against these schemes.

As with all New Jersey State Library webinars, this discussion is completely free to attend. However, advanced registration is required. For those interested in tuning in, please register on Zoom, linked here: Register – NJSL. This conversation is perfect for seniors who are interested in keeping themselves safe from scams, as well as family and caregivers seeking to keep their loved ones safe.

The afternoon’s host, Michael Rosati, is a subject matter expert with years of relevant experience in the field. A member of the New Jersey Medicaid Fraud Control Unit (MFCU) since 2017, Mr. Rosati has worked a wide variety of criminal cases involving high-dollar provider fraud schemes, pharmaceutical drug diversion, theft, financial exploitation, as well as cases involving the abuse and/or neglect of disabled or elderly victims. As of May 2024, Mr. Rosati has been promoted to the rank of Sergeant within the MFCU, where he continues to conduct investigations and supervise a team of detectives assigned to the southern region of the state. Additionally, Mr. Rosati is a member of the New Jersey Elder Protection Task Force, where he works with communities across the state to help keep our seniors safe and thriving.

For more information about this and other upcoming events at the New Jersey State Library, please visit their website, linked here: NJSL – Home. To learn more about upcoming webinars and other resources, please visit the NJSL’s Events Calendar, linked here: Events – NJSL. You can also keep up with the New Jersey State Library on Facebook, X, Instagram, and YouTube. If you have any questions, please contact NJSL staff at (609) 278-2640 with any inquiries you may have.

Full Article & Source:
Keeping Seniors Safe From Scams and Fraud With the NJ State Library

Sunday, February 16, 2025

Wendy Williams' Conservatorship Inspires Family Visitation Rights Reform by New York Senator

Story by Lovebscott


Wendy Williams’ guardianship woes are commanding the attention of at least one New York lawmaker … who’s making a big push so her family can easily visit her.

New York lawmaker Anthony Palumbo announced his initiative to reintroduce “Karilyn’s Law,” a measure designed to reform the current guardianship laws in New York State regarding family visitation.

At the heart of Palumbo’s proposal is the belief that families should not be forcibly separated from their loved ones due to guardianship circumstances. “Karilyn’s Law” would allow family members to file a motion with the court seeking visitation rights. Once submitted, the guardian would have 10 days to demonstrate whether the visitor is displaying any inappropriate behavior. If the guardian fails to prove such claims, families would be granted the right to visit.

Palumbo has long followed Williams’ case and expressed deep concern over her current living situation, describing it as “tragic” that she is confined to her apartment and away from her loved ones. He believes it is critical for people like Williams—regardless of any cognitive decline they may be experiencing—to maintain familial connections during difficult times.

The renewed attention surrounding Williams’ case has prompted a wave of support for Palumbo’s legislative efforts. Since he first introduced “Karilyn’s Law” back in 2022, his office has reportedly received countless calls and emails from citizens expressing their concerns about Williams’ guardianship ordeal. Palumbo recognizes the unfortunate truth that celebrity tragedies often serve as wake-up calls for legislative reform, sparking public interest where there might otherwise be none.

The controversy surrounding Wendy Williams’ guardianship began after Wells Fargo took significant action in early 2022 to freeze her bank accounts, successfully petitioning the court for temporary financial guardianship because she was of “unsound mind.” Williams has vehemently opposed this characterization and is actively fighting to regain control over her finances.

While legal battles continue on that front, the underlying issues raised by Williams’ situation are far-reaching. They touch on critical topics regarding the rights and autonomy of individuals who may be vulnerable and at risk of financial exploitation, particularly those facing health concerns.

As lawmakers like Palumbo advocate for reforms, Wendy Williams’ case may very well redefine how guardianship laws are handled in New York—and possibly beyond.

In the wake of tragedy, it seems the voice of advocacy is growing louder, demanding that families not be sidelined or silenced in the realms of guardianship and visitation. The hope is that “Karilyn’s Law” will catalyze positive change, paving the way for families to retain their right to connection when it matters most.

Full Article & Source:
Wendy Williams' Conservatorship Inspires Family Visitation Rights Reform by New York Senator

See Also:
TMZ: Wendy Williams 'locked up in a room', dementia diagnosis in question

FIGHT FOR FREEDOM Wendy Williams’ lawyer to ‘file petition to terminate guardianship’ after struggling star claims she’s ‘in a prison’

Wendy Williams Dementia Denial Pushes Legal Guardian To Order A New Medical Evaluation

Judge allows Wendy Williams to fly to Miami to celebrate her father’s 94th birthday amid guardianship battle

Why Wendy Williams Reportedly Fired Attorney Amid #FreeWendy Battle

Britney Spears Steps in to Help Wendy Williams Get Out of 'Abusive' Conservatorship

Wendy Williams

Three Years After Britney, Wendy Williams Shows Celebrity Conservatorships May Still Be Toxic to Women

Senator Palumbo and Families Push for Guardianship Reform Urge Passage of Karilyn’s Law in 2025

Conviction in Elderly Exploitation Case

Franado Ray Brown Jr. has been convicted of multiple charges in a case involving financial exploitation of the elderly. The jury returned the guilty verdict just after 7 p.m. Thursday night in Lee County, following a three-day trial. The case was prosecuted by Assistant State Attorney Jessica Horowitz, of the State Attorney’s Office Economic Crimes Unit.

The defendant was found guilty of:

Count I: Grand Theft from a Person 65 Years of Age or Older, including the finding for the value of the property

Count II: Fraudulent Use of a Credit Card

Count III: Unlawful Possession of the Personal Identification Information of Another Person

Count IV: Exploiting Elderly/Disabled Person, including the finding for the value of the funds, asset, or property

Count V: Fraudulent Use of a Credit Card

Count VI: Fraudulent Use of a Credit Card

Count VII: Exploiting Elderly/Disabled Person, including the finding for the value of the funds

Count VIII: Theft, including the finding for the value of the property

The victim in this case was a 72-year-old physically disabled adult, who took in the defendant in exchange for room and board. The defendant was to be assisting the victim with his errands, medication organization, and transportation. The victim provided the defendant with access to a debit card for the victim’s necessary purchases, but the defendant added his name to the victim’s credit card accounts, charging thousands of dollars.

The victim never gave permission for the defendant to add his name to the account or use the credit cards. In addition to charges for hotels and bars, the defendant took thousands of dollars of cash advances from the cards.

The Lee County Sheriff’s Office investigated the crimes. The defendant admitted to law enforcement that he used the funds to buy Fentanyl for himself and a friend.

The victim was unable to testify but multiple physicians, both local and out of state, testified on behalf of the victim.

Sentencing is scheduled for March 17, 2025.

Samantha Syoen – Communications Director, State Attorney’s Office

Source:
Conviction in Elderly Exploitation Case

Saturday, February 15, 2025

‘It’s all about the money,’ Las Vegas family fights Ohio guardianship

by: Vanessa Murphy


LAS VEGAS (KLAS) – A Las Vegas family is pushing for their loved one’s Ohio-based guardianship to be terminated. Theresa Ferguson, 91, is a ward in a guardianship, meaning a court-appointed guardian is in control of her body and estate, in Ohio.

Ferguson, who suffers from dementia, has expressed she wants to remain in Las Vegas with her daughter, Carrie Meyer.
 
“Your family is all you got,” Ferguson told the 8 News Now Investigators. “You got family, you got everything.”
 
The family’s fight received nationwide attention after Meyer posted videos on social media. Ferguson, who was a patient at Summerlin Hospital in January, wanted to leave with Carrie Meyer when she was discharged. The video shows hospital staff refusing to let Ferguson leave, with one individual referring to the guardian.
 
Summerlin Hospital appeared to be caught in the middle while following the Ohio court order.
 
The 8 News Now Investigators reached out to the hospital during the family’s fight.
 
“Due to federal patient privacy laws, we cannot comment on specific patients,” spokesperson Gretchen Papez wrote in an email. “However, it is not our policy to refuse to let patients leave. There are times, though, when we are legally obligated to not allow patients to leave the hospital. They could be incarcerated at the time of their hospitalization; a danger to themselves or others; unable to care for themselves; or be involved in a guardianship issue.”
 
The day after the 8 News Now Investigators reached out, Carrie Meyer said Ferguson was allowed to leave the hospital.
 
“The guardianship has been a very, very challenging thing in our life,” Carrie Meyer told the 8 News Now Investigators, citing a family conflict as the reason why it began.
 
“Disagreement in family members. That’s usually how it stems, a lot of times money,” she said. “My mom wasn’t extremely wealthy but she did have some money so the root of it is money, to be honest.”
 
In addition to Ferguson’s money being controlled, she was placed in an assisted living facility, where according to Carrie Meyer and her daughter, Chloe, communication was limited.
 
“She doesn’t want to be in a home,” Carrie Meyer said.
 
The Meyers said they brought Ferguson to Las Vegas, which they knew was a risk.
 
“We were at the facility with her and she asked to be rescued and that’s what we did. We rescued her,” Chloe Meyer told the 8 News Now Investigators. “We flew her to a safe haven, my mom’s house and she is completely capable of having her voice heard and expressing her wishes, and it’s been a battle, but we’re now to the point where she is here with us and it’s amazing.”
 
The Meyers said they believe the guardianship is draining Ferguson’s funds. Court records refer to social security and two pensions Ferguson receives. In addition to expenses like the facility, the guardian, who is an attorney, bills for fees.

“It’s all about the money, God damn money,” Ferguson said.
 
“She feeds herself. She bathes herself,” Carrie Meyer told the 8 News Now Investigators. “At 91, a little bit of dementia shouldn’t keep your family from living where they want to live. It’s her life.”
 
There are options for individuals like Ferguson that are not as extreme as guardianships, according to Debra Bookout, the directing attorney for the Guardianship Advocacy Project at Legal Aid Center of Southern Nevada.
 
“Think about not being able to make your own decisions. That’s a pretty big loss,” Bookout said.
 
Estate planning documents are vital, according to Bookout. A judge can honor an individual’s wishes, which could help prevent a family conflict regarding the individual’s care and finances.
 
“A happy middle ground would be we recognize you are declining, loved one, and you have wishes that should be honored, maybe an estate planning consult with an estate planning attorney is a great idea at this point,” Bookout said.
 
The state of Nevada strengthened its oversight of guardianships after systemic issues were discovered. In some cases, individuals were criminally charged.
 
The state now requires representation for wards. In Clark County, Bookout and her team represent the wards.
 
“We appear in court on behalf of that person and advocate for their wishes,” Bookout said.
 
The Meyers are asking an Ohio court to terminate Ferguson’s guardianship.
 
The guardian, attorney Justine Winger, filed a motion to withdraw as the guardian of Ferguson as a person, stating Ferguson’s family is making it difficult for her to do her job.
 
Winger also agrees to remain guardian of Ferguson’s estate “until another suitable person applies and is appointed as such in either Ohio (where the ward’s assets lie) or Nevada (where the ward is currently being housed),” according to the motion.
 
The 8 News Now Investigators’ attempts to reach Winger were unsuccessful. 
 
A hearing on the matter is scheduled for March 20.

Full Article & Source:
‘It’s all about the money,’ Las Vegas family fights Ohio guardianship

York County Couple — Exercising Power of Attorney and Primary Caregiving Responsibilities — Charged with Neglect, Financial Exploitation of Elderly Woman


February 14, 2025
| Topic: Criminal

Victim was found alone, soiled, behind a dog gate in basement of her home

HARRISBURG — Attorney General Dave Sunday announced that a York County husband and wife have been charged with abandoning a care-dependent woman — the wife’s mother — in a basement, while the couple went on vacation.

Ashlee Brady and Brian Brady, each 32, of Hanover, are also charged with using the woman’s finances for their own personal expenses, including vacations and alcohol.

Ashlee was her mother’s power of attorney; Brian was the victim’s caregiver and was reimbursed with Medicaid funds through his employer.

Both are charged with financial exploitation of an older adult/care-dependent person, theft by deception, neglect of a care-dependent person, and conspiracy counts to commit all of the above listed crimes. Ashlee Brady is also charged with perjury and two counts of intimidation of a witness and Brian Brady is charged with four counts of Medicaid fraud.

“These alleged acts are truly disturbing on many levels — as these defendants were not only family, her own daughter and son-in-law, they were paid to look out for this victim’s best interests,” Attorney General Sunday said. “I commend the investigators who uncovered this cycle of abusive and exploitative conduct. My office will continue to stand up for Pennsylvania’s most vulnerable residents.”

In February 2024, the victim was found, alone, locked in the basement of her home. She was soiled and penned into a corner with a dog gate. She had been left with hot dogs and two cups of water. Emergency Medical Services found the victim after a relative called them for assistance.

An investigation determined that the defendants left the victim in the basement and took an overnight trip with their children. Further investigation uncovered alleged financial exploitation, as the defendants used more than $10,000 of the victim’s money on vacations, alcohol, and other activities not related to her care or upkeep.

Also, Brian allegedly submitted hours to his employer, for reimbursement from Medicaid, for services he did not provide the victim. Investigators determined that Ashlee Brady lied under oath about the abandonment incident, saying she made arrangements for a family member to watch the victim.

The Brady’s preliminary hearing is scheduled for March 27.

This case is being prosecuted by Senior Deputy Attorney General Christopher R. Sherwood. Criminal charges, and any discussion thereof, are merely allegations and all defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.

The Pennsylvania Medicaid Fraud Control Unit receives 75 percent of its funding from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services under a grant award totaling $12,839,940 for Federal fiscal year (FY) 2025. The remaining 25 percent, totaling $4,279,979 for FY 2025, is funded by Pennsylvania.

Source:
York County Couple — Exercising Power of Attorney and Primary Caregiving Responsibilities — Charged with Neglect, Financial Exploitation of Elderly Woman

Friday, February 14, 2025

TMZ: Wendy Williams 'locked up in a room', dementia diagnosis in question

A source told FOX 4 News that Wendy Williams has been confined to a room and has only been allowed outside twice in the past 30 days due to her guardianship.

TMZ’s Harvey Levin believes Williams was misdiagnosed and has improved since becoming sober.

What we know:

Levin recently interviewed Williams from the street, claiming she is locked in a room at an assisted living facility in New York with no internet access. He said she is rarely allowed visitors and has only been outside twice in the past month.

"She rightly feels like a prisoner," Levin said.

According to Levin, Williams is back to her old self, but her guardian refuses to release her.

Wendy Williams’ Conservatorship

Williams was placed under guardianship a few years ago following struggles with alcohol.

Levin described the arrangement as one where she has been "locked up and the key thrown away."

Frontotemporal Dementia

Williams was diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia in 2023. This disease causes behavioral and personality deterioration, eventually leading to difficulty speaking and understanding others, according to the Alzheimer’s Association.

There is no cure or specific treatment for frontotemporal dementia, and the condition progressively worsens. Over time, most people with the disease develop muscle weakness and coordination problems, making them unable to leave their beds.

Actor Bruce Willis was diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia in 2022.

Alcohol-Induced Dementia

A similar condition, alcohol-induced dementia, differs in that it can sometimes be reversed with treatment.

Symptoms of alcohol-related dementia include memory loss and difficulty with daily tasks caused by excessive alcohol consumption over time. However, the Alzheimer’s Association notes that the condition does not necessarily worsen. With proper treatment, a person’s condition can improve.

If someone stops drinking alcohol and maintains a balanced diet, their cognitive function may recover. Initial alcohol withdrawal can cause delirium, confusion, and distraction.

Williams has been sober.

Where is Wendy Williams Now?

Wendy Williams is in an assisted living home in New York.

Wendy Williams Update

What's next:

Williams’ guardian has said she will undergo further evaluation but does not expect her diagnosis to change.

Levin has questioned how the guardian could be certain without input from a specialist. He claims to have spoken with Williams for hours over the past month and believes she continues to improve.

What you can do:

TMZ’s special documentary on Williams’ situation, Saving Wendy, is available for free on Tubi.

Full Article & Source:
TMZ: Wendy Williams 'locked up in a room', dementia diagnosis in question

See Also:
FIGHT FOR FREEDOM Wendy Williams’ lawyer to ‘file petition to terminate guardianship’ after struggling star claims she’s ‘in a prison’

Wendy Williams Dementia Denial Pushes Legal Guardian To Order A New Medical Evaluation

Judge allows Wendy Williams to fly to Miami to celebrate her father’s 94th birthday amid guardianship battle

Why Wendy Williams Reportedly Fired Attorney Amid #FreeWendy Battle

Britney Spears Steps in to Help Wendy Williams Get Out of 'Abusive' Conservatorship

Wendy Williams

Three Years After Britney, Wendy Williams Shows Celebrity Conservatorships May Still Be Toxic to Women

Senator Palumbo and Families Push for Guardianship Reform Urge Passage of Karilyn’s Law in 2025

Former nursing home worker sentenced to jail for elder abuse; cases continue for two other suspects


A former Guthrie nursing home employee has been sentenced to jail after pleading guilty to charges of conspiracy and elder abuse following a disturbing investigation into misconduct at Golden Age Nursing Home.

Jade Williams, 22, was sentenced Tuesday after a Guthrie detective, Williams, and her mother provided testimony in court. Williams, who showed emotion while reading from a prepared statement, received two 10-year sentences with the Oklahoma Department of Corrections (DOC).

The first charge includes eight years suspended, meaning she could serve up to two years behind bars. Then she will begin serving 8.5 mandatory years on the second charge which is required (85% crime) of her sentence before being eligible for release.

Williams was arrested in July along with Aubrey Granata, 22, and McKenzie Bolfa, 21, following a two-month investigation by the Guthrie Police Department. The investigation began after a former nursing home employee came forward with disturbing allegations against their co-workers.

Court documents reveal that Williams, Granata, and Bolfa exchanged Snapchat videos and photos showing residents in degrading and inhumane conditions. One video depicted an elderly resident lying on a bed wearing only a shirt and a diaper, with fecal matter on the sheets and socks. Another video showed a male resident lying nude from the waist down. Additionally, photos surfaced of deceased residents being mocked by the workers.

“It’s probably one of the saddest things,” Guthrie Police Chief Don Sweger said in a previous interview. “We take service to everybody very responsibly, but especially for those who don’t have a voice for themselves.”

As part of her sentencing, Williams must complete a drug offender work camp while in DOC custody, undergo drug and alcohol evaluations and follow all recommendations, submit to random drug testing, undergo a mental health evaluation and follow all recommendations, obtain employment or enroll in school, complete 300 hours of community service upon release, address fines and court costs within 180 days of release.

Meanwhile, Granata and Bolfa have pleaded not guilty in their cases and are expected back in court in March.

Golden Age director, Tandie Hastings, issued a statement, last year, in response to the allegations: “Golden Age Nursing Home endeavors to ensure the safety and well-being of its residents. Upon receiving information related to certain allegations against its employees, the facility began working with local law enforcement and other appropriate authorities to respond. The employees involved had cleared background checks, were educated related to resident’s rights/safety, and have been terminated from employment. We are committed to protecting the privacy and safety of the residents and families involved and will continue to keep them updated with any developments related to this matter.”

The accused, 22-year-old Aubrey Granata, 22-year-old Jade Williams, and 21-year-old McKenzie Bolfa, are now facing serious charges of elderly abuse.

Full Article & Source:
Former nursing home worker sentenced to jail for elder abuse; cases continue for two other suspects