NEW YORK (1010 WINS) — A home health aide was indicted for allegedly stealing $24,000 from older homebound adults in her care and attempting to steal thousands more, Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg announced Thursday.
According to court documents, between mid-June and mid-July 2023, Jerona Smith, 47, worked as a home health aide for a 70-year-old woman who was suffering from advanced dementia. While caring for her, Smith used the victim’s existing bank account, credit card, and payment service account to make purchases and send money to third parties, including friends.
Smith also opened new payment accounts and credit cards in the victim’s name, officlas said.
Smith was aware of the victim’s incapacity during the theft, according to D.A. Bragg.
Prosecutors allege Smith stole approximately $19,000 and attempted to steal an additional $54,000 from the victim.
Between February and December 2023, Smith worked for a second client, a 69-year-old woman who suffered from advanced osteoporosis and multiple back fractures.
According to officials, the woman was homebound and relied on Smith for day-to-day help. Smith wrote herself checks from the victim’s checking account, made purchases with her credit card, and opened a PayPal account in her name for a total of approximately $5,000 in charged transactions.
Smith, a Manhattan resident, was charged with two counts of grand larceny, one count of attempted grand larceny, two counts of identity theft and three counts of criminal possession of stolen property.
"As alleged, Jerona Smith broke the trust that her clients instilled in her by stealing their hard-earned money," D.A. Bragg said. "My Office will continue to prosecute those who prey on the vulnerability of older New Yorkers in their care."
"If you or someone you know is above the age of 60 and may be a victim of a crime, I urge you to call our Elder Abuse Unit at 212-335-9007 or email EAU@dany.nyc.gov," he added.