WEST BLOOMFIELD (WWJ) -- An Oakland County housekeeper is accused of stealing an estimated $571,000 worth of cash and items from her clients' homes.
The 39-year-old housekeeper, Beata Tarnawska, was arrested Thursday and charged with a nine-count felony warrant for larceny.
West Bloomfield Deputy Police Chief Curt Lawson said their investigation began back in October when one of Tarnawska's clients confronted her about stealing a watch, in which she allegedly admitted to the crime.
After completing a search warrant on Tarnawska's home Lawson said they located stolen items and discovered there are more than 20 confirmed victims all over southeast Michigan.
Police recovered about $8,000 in cash and several items -- including some items from local pawn shops. But, they believe Tarnawska was able to sell most of the items on social media before being caught.
"She had gained individuals' trust -- she was treated like a family member in many circumstances," said Lawson. "I know that our victims feel like that trust was obviously violated -- they're hurt -- some of them are embarrassed."
Lawson said West Bloomfield police have been working side-by-side with the Oakland County Prosecutor's Office and surrounding agencies as far away as Grosse Pointe on this investigation.
Tarnawska is being held on a $50,000 bond.
Lawson told WWJ that he believes there are more victims and urges those people to step forward and call police immediately.
Anyone with information should call West Bloomfield Police at 248-975-9200.
