A couple is facing charges of theft from the elderly in Los Angeles after authorities say they stole more than $600,000 from an 85-year-old Laguna Woods woman, NBC News reported.
A Los Angeles criminal defense lawyer experienced in handling financial crimes will need to represent the defendants in this case. These are complex crimes. Allegations are often unfounded. Frequently siblings or other relatives are involved. And the criminal consequences can be severe. Too often, these crimes also involve defendants who are unfamiliar with the criminal justice system. In such cases, they sometimes cooperate with authorities, or give statements, in the hopes of talking their way out of being charged. This is almost always a mistake. We believe your best bet is to remain silent and speak to a qualified defense attorney as early as possible in an investigation.
In this case, the 57-year-old defendant from Laguna Niguel is facing two felony counts of accessory after the fact and receiving stolen property, as well as one count of second-degree burglary. His 51-year-old wife is charged with a felony count of caretaker theft from an elder, 34 counts of fraudulent use of a credit card, 24 felony forgery counts and a first-degree felony burglary charge.
She also is facing sentencing enhancements for loss of more than $150,000, white-collar crime of more than $500,000 and property loss of more than $200,000. Both have pleaded not guilty and are being held on $610,000 bail.
Investigators displayed more than 100 pieces of jewelry and believe there might be more victims. The female defendant is accused of using stolen money on Lasik eye surgery, private schools for her children, travel and personal items. She allegedly spent more than $20,000 caring for her dog.
If you are facing theft or fraud charges in Los Angeles, contact Rodriguez, Lewis & Kahn for a free and confidential consultation to discuss your rights.
