A former certified nursing assistant (CNA) at Independence Village of Midland is facing charges after being accused of stealing money from 13 residents in 2023. Katoria Crawford, 32, of Midland, was arrested and arraigned on February 11th, charged with larceny in a building. Her probable cause hearing is scheduled for February 25th in Midland County District Court.
According to Midland Police Department’s Brennon Warren, the investigation began on May 16, 2023, after an 88-year-old resident reported approximately $100 missing from her wallet. The resident stated that Crawford had been in her room the previous day, claiming to be replacing a light bulb. Surveillance footage corroborated the resident’s account, showing Crawford entering the room shortly before the resident’s return.
“In all, there was over $2,000 reported missing,” Warren stated. The alleged thefts came to light after the initial report, prompting other residents to check their own belongings. Several other residents reported missing funds, with amounts ranging from $100 to $400. Warren noted that the initial complainant was “completely independent and relied on no care services from the facility.”
This incident raises concerns about the vulnerability of elderly residents in assisted living facilities. As the National Council on Aging (NCOA) notes, “Financial exploitation is the most common form of elder abuse, and it’s estimated that elders lose at least $36.5 billion each year to financial abuse scams.” This statistic underscores the importance of vigilance and preventative measures within the industry.
The case highlights the need for robust screening processes for staff and ongoing monitoring within facilities. While the investigation is ongoing, the charges against Crawford have raised questions about security protocols and resident safety within assisted living communities. A representative from Independence Village was not immediately available for comment. This story will be updated as more information becomes available.