Target: Financial abuse of elderly

Anne Mills lost her financial security in 2005 after giving power of attorney to a neighbor who sold her Charlotte house. That neighbor is now charged with embezzling from the sale.

The 89-year-old woman's misfortune isn't unique. Elderly people are often the victims of such cases in North Carolina.

But one thing sets this case apart: It's being prosecuted. After three years without a single prosecution, Mecklenburg County is working to crack down on elderly financial exploitation. In a recent 20-month period, county social workers calculated $1.6 million in losses from cases they investigated. And the problem, which costs taxpayers when exploited seniors are forced to go on Medicaid, is destined to grow as baby boomers age.

Such cases can be difficult to prosecute, some law enforcement authorities say.


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