Woman accused of embezzling from father under her care

Kari Ann Yakes (Kent County Sheriff's Office)

By Michael Kransz

GRAND RAPIDS, MI -- A 44-year-old woman allegedly took thousands of dollars from her father, who she had guardianship over.

Kari Ann Yakes, of Lake City, was arraigned Friday, June 14, on a single felony charge of embezzlement by an agent or trustee more than $1,000 but less than $20,000. The charge carries a punishment of up to five years in prison.

Prosecutors say Yakes was granted full guardianship over her father in June 2018 by the Kent County Probate Court. Afterward, they allege, she spent thousands of dollars of her father’s money on herself and family members.

The case was brought by Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel’s office. Nessel stopped in Grand Rapids on Friday afternoon as part of her Elder Abuse Task Force listening tour.

Two others were arraigned Friday on misdemeanor, fourth-degree vulnerable adult abuse charges brought by Nessel’s office.

“These three cases illustrate the incredible importance of our Elder Abuse Task Force and the need for community awareness, dialogue and solutions to help eliminate elder abuse in Michigan,” Nessel said in a statement. “Residents living in nursing homes are inherently vulnerable, incredibly dependent on others, and deserve the best care possible, which includes following their care plans which are put in place for a reason. Guardians are entrusted to safeguard, not raid, the assets of those they have been appointed to protect.”

Yakes’ next court hearing is scheduled for June 25.

Full Article & Source:
Woman accused of embezzling from father under her care