Petaluma Care Provider Accused Of Bilking Elderly Clients

Lisa Chavez

PETALUMA, CA -- A Petaluma woman who works as an in-home care provider is suspected of stealing money from at least two of her elderly clients. According to a Petaluma Police Department news release, Lisa Chavez was arrested Monday following a week-long investigation that allegedly revealed she pocketed a combined $3,000 from the clients.

In one case, police say the victim had given her debit card and PIN number to Chavez for the purpose of making routine purchases.

"However, Chavez also used the victim’s debit card to withdrawal cash at banks, other than the victim’s, and the Graton Casino," said Petaluma police Sgt. Lance Novello.

The victim's loss exceeded $1,500, Novello said.

Through the course of their investigation, police learned that another elderly victim who employed Chavez found she was missing around $1,500 cash she had been saving for a medical procedure.

"The victim confronted Chavez, who then admitted to the theft and agreed to pay the money back in increments," Novello said.

Investigators pieced together account statements, surveillance images and Chavez’s payroll records, all which allegedly revealed a pattern consistent with the victim’s losses, the sergeant said.

Petaluma police contacted Chavez on Monday and after interviewing her, placed her under arrest on suspicion of fiduciary elder abuse and identity theft.

"Chavez was booked into the Sonoma County Jail with a bail enhancement due to the nature of the offenses, but was then released on bail," Novello said.

Police are continuing their investigation and encouraged anyone else who may have been victimized by Chavez to contact the Petaluma Police Department.

Chavez's employer was notified of the allegations and is cooperating with the investigation, Novello said.

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Petaluma Care Provider Accused Of Bilking Elderly Clients