Police Arrest and Charge Two Personal Support Workers Following Alleged Financial Offences

Halton | Milton | Ontario | Latest News |

Published October 22, 2018 at 1:45 pm

Police have arrested and charged two personal support workers (PSWs) following alleged financial offences.

Police have arrested and charged two personal support workers (PSWs) following alleged financial offences.

According to a recent media release, the Halton Regional Police Three District Criminal Investigation Bureau have arrested and charged two Halton PSWs following alleged financial offences against a 82-year-old Burlington victim.

Between April 4 and July 25 of this year, the accused allegedly used cheques and credit cards belonging to the victim to an amount of $6,048.53, police say.

Police say, both persons accused worked as a PSW for the victim at different times.  

Police say Melissa Watson, 28, of Acton was released on a promise to appear in Milton Court on Nov. 14. The accused has been charged with the following offences: 

  • Fraud Under $5000, 
  • Uttering a forged document
  • Possession of Property Obtained by crime

According to police Sarah Taylor Mackenzie, 25, of Burlington was released on a promise to appear in Milton Court on Nov. 14. The accused has been charged with the following offences: 

  • Fraud Over $5000
  • Uttering a forged document
  • Possession of property obtained by crime
  • Unauthorized use of stolen credit card (two counts)

According to police, there is no further risk to the public.

Police are urging for Halton residents who have PSWs in their homes to be aware of their PSWs identity, and have a detailed schedule from the agency providing care. 

Police also say if you do have a PSW come into your home, all valuables and financial items should be properly secured in order to ensure safety.

Unless specifically contracted, PSWs are not authorized to complete any financial transactions, purchase items, or use the financial cards or cheques belonging to the patient or client receiving care, according to police.

Police say, those who are the power of attorney for family members should complete regular audits of finances, and be aware of large and uncommon withdrawals from accounts.

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