Caregiver accused of drug binge on woman's dime
Alexander Hughes allegedly used the 62-year-old's ATM card
October 18, 2008
MAXINE BERNSTEIN
The Oregonian Staff
For about a year, Alexander Hughes had been living with and caring for a disabled 62-year-old woman who suffered from a brain injury. On Sept. 28, he left her home, telling the woman he was going to pick up her medications at Walgreens.
But Hughes didn't return.
Now he faces a 49-count criminal indictment, accused of using the woman's ATM card to withdraw more than $600 during a two-day drug binge.
Hughes, 47, faces felony charges, including aggravated identity theft, first-degree criminal mistreatment, and fraudulent use of a credit card. He pleaded not guilty this week to all charges and has a Nov. 26 court date.
The woman never got her medication, and on Oct. 2 she learned from her bank about the numerous and unusual cash withdrawals. Between Sept. 30 and Oct. 1, there were 12 withdrawals totaling $666; on Oct. 2, an attempted withdrawal was declined.
Often, a caretaker or a family member starts stealing from the elderly person, or obtains the power of attorney and abuses it. In this case, the victim came to court using a walker and testified before a grand jury to obtain a criminal indictment, Shoen said.
If you believe someone is experiencing abuse, neglect or is being financially exploited, contact local police or Multnomah County's Aging and Disability Services at 503-988-3646.
Abridged
SOURCE: The Oregonian - OregonLive.com
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