Florida Senior Living Director Accused of Pawning Residents’ Jewelry After Ring Disappears

DeBary, Florida — A Central Florida senior living executive is facing criminal charges after investigators say he stole jewelry from residents and sold the items at pawn shops.

The Volusia Sheriff’s Office said the case began when an engagement ring was reported missing from a resident’s bedroom at Arya senior living.

Detectives reviewed surveillance video that allegedly showed Executive Director Shaun Burstein entering the resident’s room while it was unoccupied, moving toward the area of a jewelry box, and leaving a short time later. Authorities said separate footage also captured him attempting to open the jewelry box before noticing the camera and walking out.

How investigators say the jewelry was traced

According to investigators, pawn records later showed Burstein sold multiple pieces of jewelry, including the missing engagement ring. The ring was positively identified and placed on hold, authorities said.

The sheriff’s office said pawn documentation and a fingerprint tied Burstein to the transaction involving the engagement ring.

Alleged pattern of theft

During an interview with detectives, Burstein admitted to stealing jewelry from multiple residents and selling the items at local pawn shops, according to the sheriff’s office.

Records reviewed by investigators indicate he sold more than 93 pieces of jewelry between September 23, 2025, and December 30, 2025.

Burstein, 45, of Sanford, turned himself in on charges including dealing in stolen property and theft from a person 65 years of age or older, authorities said.

The investigation remains ongoing, and detectives have urged families who suspect a loved one may be a victim to contact law enforcement.