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Israel Police have arrested a 26-year-old female caregiver for allegedly stealing hundreds of thousands of shekels from a disabled and elderly cancer patient, the force announced on Tuesday.
The suspect, who worked at a medical center in Manshiya Zabda, a town located about 13 km west of Nazareth in northern Israel, had been privately employed to care for the 77-year-old cancer patient in his apartment.
The elderly man, suffering from a disability and dealing with the challenges of cancer, was reportedly targeted by the caregiver, who took advantage of his vulnerable health condition.
According to the police, the caregiver used the victim’s credit cards to withdraw large sums of money, amounting to hundreds of thousands of shekels.
The thefts went undetected for some time, as the elderly man was unable to recognize the suspicious transactions due to his condition.
The Coastal District Police, suspecting theft, initiated an investigation through its Haifa station. After gathering sufficient evidence, the police were able to track the fraudulent transactions and identify the caregiver as the prime suspect. Authorities then moved quickly to bring her in for questioning.
During the investigation, the suspect reportedly admitted to using the victim’s credit cards to steal the funds. She was arrested shortly after and has since remained in police custody.
The case has shocked the local community, raising concerns about the safety and well-being of vulnerable individuals who rely on caregivers for assistance.
Experts emphasize the importance of proper vetting and supervision of caregivers, particularly for patients with severe health conditions or disabilities, to prevent such breaches of trust.
The police are continuing their investigation, and the caregiver may face charges related to theft, fraud, and exploitation of a vulnerable individual. The victim’s family has expressed their distress over the incident, which has been described as a betrayal of trust.
This case highlights the risks faced by elderly individuals and people with disabilities who depend on caregivers for daily support. While the caregiver has been arrested, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for increased vigilance and accountability in the caregiving profession.
As the investigation continues, police are urging anyone with similar experiences or knowledge of other potential victims to come forward to assist in the ongoing case.