Wednesday, August 19, 2020

Oakland County woman accused of stealing more than $70,000 from elderly veteran

An Oakland County woman is accused of stealing more than $70,000 from an elderly veteran. (WWMT/File)
LANSING, Mich. — A Bloomfield Hills woman was accused of stealing more than $70,000 from an elderly veteran.

Margaret Risdon, 60, was arraigned Thursday, July 16, 2020, and faces charges of embezzlement from a vulnerable adult between $50,000 and $100,000, and two counts of failing to file taxes, according to a written statement from Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel's office.

“My office is not only committed to enforcing the laws of this state, but to ensuring Michigan’s vulnerable populations are not taken advantage of,” Nessel said.

The statement said Risdon allegedly wrote checks from the victim's bank account to herself and her business between Nov. 6, 2016 and July 20, 2017. The checks totaled nearly $56,800. She also allegedly made ATM withdrawals totaling more than $16,000.

Nessel's office began investigating when the victim raised concerns someone was stealing from him. While he was unable to care for himself at the time of the theft, the statement said Risdon didn't act as his guardian or conservator, nor did she have power of attorney for him.

“Even before my time as Attorney General began, I understood the important role my office should play in protecting our senior populations," Nessel said. "That’s why I helped to create the Elder Abuse Task Force – to advance protections for our senior citizens and advocate for real change and meaningful legislation to improve their lives well into the twilight years.”

Risdon was expected to appear in court for a probably cause conference at 10 a.m. Thursday, July 30, followed by a preliminary hearing at 10 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 6.

To file a report of elder abuse, call the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services Adult Protective Services at 855-444-3911.

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Oakland County woman accused of stealing more than $70,000 from elderly veteran

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