Nursing asst. gets year in jail for theft
August 30, 2009
By Carl Hessler Jr
Bernadette Phillips, 40, of the 500 block of East Lafayette Street, was convicted during a non-jury trial in Montgomery County Court of charges of theft by deception, theft by unlawful taking, identity theft and access device fraud in connection with incidents that occurred in October 2007 while she worked for the 83-year-old man.
Phillips faces a possible maximum sentence of 14 to 28 years in prison on the charges.
Assistant District Attorney Steven Bunn filed court papers Tuesday indicating he intends to use a state law that allows prosecutors to seek at least a one-year mandatory jail sentence against those who commit crimes against elderly persons over 65 years of age. Once prosecutors seek a mandatory sentence, judges have no discretion but to impose the mandatory term.
Assistant District Attorney Steven Bunn filed court papers Tuesday indicating he intends to use a state law that allows prosecutors to seek at least a one-year mandatory jail sentence against those who commit crimes against elderly persons over 65 years of age. Once prosecutors seek a mandatory sentence, judges have no discretion but to impose the mandatory term.
Phillips, who is represented by defense lawyer William English, remains free on bail pending sentencing.
The case was prosecuted as part of the district attorney's Elder Abuse Prosecution Unit.
The case was prosecuted as part of the district attorney's Elder Abuse Prosecution Unit.
Abridged
SOURCE: Pottstown Mercury
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