Westlake, OH — A former nursing assistant at a Westlake long-term care facility has been indicted in Cuyahoga County on allegations that she stole credit cards from at least eight residents and made thousands of dollars in unauthorized purchases, according to local law enforcement and court records.
Prosecutors allege that Sheila Villanueva used her position at Rae Ann Suburban Nursing and Rehabilitation to access residents’ personal financial information. Authorities say she removed credit cards belonging to residents and used them without authorization, running up significant charges across multiple accounts.
Investigators have not publicly released a precise total dollar amount tied to the alleged thefts, but police have said the losses amounted to several thousand dollars spread across the victims.
Investigation Timeline
According to police, concerns were first reported to authorities in April 2025, prompting an investigation into potential financial exploitation. Villanueva was terminated from her position at the facility in August, arrested in November, and formally arraigned in December, court records show.
She has been charged with identity fraud and receiving stolen property, both felony offenses under Ohio law.
Court Proceedings
Villanueva appeared in Cuyahoga County Court of Common Pleas in mid-December, where she entered a not guilty plea, according to court filings. A pre-trial hearing is scheduled for January 5, 2026.
Facility and Regulatory Questions
Rae Ann Suburban Nursing and Rehabilitation has not issued a detailed public statement outlining any internal policy changes or disciplinary actions beyond Villanueva’s termination. It also remains unclear whether residents or families have received reimbursement or whether state regulators have launched a separate inquiry tied to the allegations.
Broader Concerns in Long-Term Care
The case highlights ongoing concerns about financial vulnerability among nursing home residents, particularly when staff members have routine access to personal belongings and sensitive records. While criminal cases involving employee theft remain relatively uncommon, even isolated allegations can prompt heightened scrutiny from families, regulators, and facility operators.
As the legal process moves forward, additional details — including potential plea negotiations, further charges, or sentencing outcomes — are expected to emerge. Villanueva is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.
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