As California residents age, their families may find it necessary to take over their decision-making. This is where conservatorships often come into play. However, there is a real danger of exploitation if the ward’s loved ones fail to remain diligent.
Just as is the case in the rest of the country, many of California’s aging and ill residents are particularly vulnerable to financial abuse. For instance, a criminal case in a neighboring state alleges that a decorated and respected police officer absconded with approximately $700,000 of an elderly widow’s money. Reports indicate that he made arrangements to become her beneficiary after she died.
The private guardian he hired to help with his scheme also faces charges. The man, who served on the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department was last said to be in jail. It is unknown whether the deceased victim’s surviving family members intend to pursue civil litigation against the officer.
Sadly, cases such as this one are not as rare as many might think. Unscrupulous and greedy individuals often prey upon the aging and elderly population of the country, including many of those here in California. In some cases, it may even be necessary to keep an eye on family members.
Many conservatorships work as intended, and the person tasked with taking care of the ward diligently performs his or her duties. Unfortunately, the percentage of people who exploit their control over another person makes it necessary to remain skeptical. If any impropriety is uncovered, it may be necessary to take legal action in order to resolve the situation.
Source: ktnv.com, “Las Vegas police officer, April Parks, others indicted in guardianship case”, Darcy Spears, Feb. 15, 2018