West Columbia Man Accused of Stealing Nearly $50K From Nursing Home Resident

West Columbia, SC — A 44-year-old Gaston man is facing felony charges after state investigators say he diverted nearly $50,000 from a nursing home resident for his own personal use.

The South Carolina Attorney General’s Office announced that Cory Daniel Busbee was arrested on February 20, 2026, on charges of Exploitation of a Vulnerable Adult and Breach of Trust with Fraudulent Intent, according to officials. Authorities allege Busbee, who was serving as the resident’s power of attorney, gained control of funds belonging to a resident of a long-term care facility and failed to use the money for the individual’s care or related expenses.

Instead, investigators say, the funds were spent for Busbee’s personal benefit.

Busbee was booked into the Lexington County Detention Center following his arrest. The case is being prosecuted by the South Carolina Attorney General’s Office through its Vulnerable Adults and Medicaid Provider Fraud unit. Officials have not released the name of the alleged victim or identified the facility where the resident lived.

Authorities also have not disclosed how long the alleged diversion of funds occurred. However, authorities allege the total loss amounts to close to $50,000.

Allegations Raise Concerns About Vulnerable Adult Protections

Under South Carolina law, vulnerable adults include individuals who, because of age or disability, depend on others for care. That definition often applies to nursing home residents.

Investigators contend the resident in this case met that legal standard and that Busbee’s actions amounted to exploitation rather than legitimate oversight of finances. Public documents do not clarify what formal role, if any, Busbee held in managing the resident’s money. In similar cases, individuals are often entrusted—either informally or through legal arrangements—to oversee financial matters.

Part of a Broader Pattern

Financial exploitation remains a persistent concern in long-term care settings. Industry observers note that misuse of bank accounts, pensions, or benefits intended to cover medical services and daily living costs can go undetected for months.

Unpaid facility bills or sudden financial shortfalls are frequently cited as early warning signs. When concerns arise, providers are encouraged to document irregularities and notify authorities.

The case against Busbee remains active, with further proceedings to be handled by the Attorney General’s Office.