Louisiana Couple Arrested for Stealing Blind Opelousas Veteran’s Benefits

OPELOUSAS, La. (KPEL News) - Folks in Acadiana are really big on family, especially our older family members. Unfortunately, there are some out there who target and take advantage of the elderly. An Opelousas couple is behind bars today after being arrested for stealing money from a disabled elderly Veteran.

How Authorities Discovered the Veteran’s Financial Exploitation

Authorities said a 77-year-old blind military Veteran was hospitalized after a fall and required medical and rehabilitative care. However, when proof of income was requested, officials discovered that the victim’s caregiver, 63-year-old Marvin Washington, had been illegally collecting the Veteran’s $1,408-per-month Veterans Administration (VA) benefits and accessing his financial account without authorization. As a result, the victim was also denied the rehabilitation care recommended by medical professionals, officials said.

What Charges the Suspects Face

Washington faces charges of exploitation of the infirmed and access device fraud, while Mary Washington, 63, was charged as an accessory after the fact. Both turned themselves in Monday, March 10th, according to the St. Landry Parish Sheriff’s Office.

Authorities have not released bond details or the victim’s identity out of respect for his safety.

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How to Report Veteran Financial Exploitation and Elder Abuse

The VA advises that If you suspect someone is defrauding an elderly disabled veteran, you should immediately contact the Veterans Affairs (VA) Office of Inspector General (OIG) hotline at (800) 488-8244 to report the suspected fraud; you can also provide details about the situation, including the perpetrator's information and the nature of the fraudulent activity. 

Key points to remember:

• Report to the VA OIG:

  This is the primary avenue to report suspected fraud against veterans, including elderly and disabled ones. 

• Gather evidence:

  Collect any documentation that supports your claims, such as bank statements, emails, or communication records with the suspected perpetrator. 

• Contact local authorities:

  If the fraud involves criminal activity, consider contacting your local law enforcement agency as well. 

• Consider contacting Adult Protective Services:

  Depending on the situation, you might also need to reach out to your local Adult Protective Services agency to investigate potential elder abuse.