Jeremy Woods & Tiffany Thomas, Tulsa, OK couple arrested stealing dementia mom’s life savings of $150K & spending it on gambling at casinos.
A Tulsa, Oklahoma couple are alleged to have the stolen the life savings of an elderly female relative in their care, suffering from dementia.
Jeremy C. Woods and Tiffany A. Thomas were arrested at their Tulsa residence on Wednesday and charged with exploitation by caretaker.
According to investigators, the pair are accused of taking as much as $150,000 from Woods’ 86-year-old mother, who authorities say is mentally impaired.
Exploitation of caretaker by Tulsa, OK son and partner
Investigators say the victim’s own son, Jeremy Woods, and his partner, Tiffany Thomas, were trusted with the victim’s finances but instead spent the money on shopping, entertainment and gambling.
Deputies say the victim lives in a retirement home. The investigation began after her check for care bounced, prompting a review of her bank account.
The alleged theft came to light late last year when a bank employee noticed suspicious activity on the woman’s account and alerted Adult Protective Services, Newson6 reported.
Records showed an unusually high number of withdrawals, including nearly 80 ATM transactions over a six-month period. Investigators say about half of those transactions were made at casinos.
After months of investigation, Tulsa County Sheriff’s Office detectives determined that Woods and Thomas allegedly drained up to $150,000 from the victim’s accounts. Authorities believe most of the money was spent at area casinos, along with purchases at retail stores and through online transactions
‘This entire situation is heartbreaking,’ said Cpl. Richie Gonzales with the Tulsa County Sheriff’s Office. ‘The bank statements show a clear pattern of waste and abuse.’
A judge ordered the two to have no contact with the victim and to stay out of casinos.
