"Caretaker" stole from elderly victim, squatted, police say


  • Rutland Police Department photos (Facebook)

    RUTLAND — A 38-year-old woman accused of posing as a caretaker to an elderly resident, then squatting in her home and stealing from her, has been arrested, police said.

    Maria Martin, formerly of Fall River, was charged with larceny from a building, vandalizing property and permitting abuse on an elder or disabled person, according to the Rutland Police Department.

    Police allege Martin fraudulently established residence with the victim under the pretense of providing care. When the woman left for an extended stay in a medical facility, Martin and her boyfriend allegedly moved into the Rutland home without permission.

    When the victim returned, she found the locks had been changed, her home in disrepair and littered with drug paraphernalia, and several possessions missing, police said. Investigators also found evidence that Martin had been operating an illicit erotic massage business from the property.

    Martin was arraigned in East Brookfield District Court and is being held on $5,000 bail at the Hampden County Sheriff’s Office.

    Police said they are working with elder services, the victim’s family, and a court victim advocate to ensure the woman’s safety and access to needed services.

    Authorities urged anyone who suspects elder abuse to report it immediately.

Comments

1 comment
  • Gail Smith
    Gail Smith You have to love the "what's this all about" look on her face. Scumbag. Lock her up and throw away the key.
    11 hours ago

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