19-03-2025
Florida caregiver accused of stealing 75-year-old's car, using credit card for spa treatment
ST. LUCIE COUNTY, Fla. (WFLA) — A Florida caregiver is accused of stealing a 75-year-old woman's car and using the victim's credit card to pay for a spa treatment.
The St. Lucie County Sheriff's Office said 28-year-old Sarah Works gained the trust of the 75-year-old woman by inserting herself into the victim's life as a caregiver.
According to an arrest affidavit, the victim said she gave Works access to her credit card to purchase food and groceries. The 75-year-old woman said she also allowed Works to use her vehicle in the past, for grocery runs and to take the victim to and from doctor appointments.
On Feb. 14, while the victim was in a hospital, Works had her sign paperwork to authorize access to her credit card.
The victim told deputies that Works was supposed to deliver food to the victim before 8 p.m. but never arrived. However, the victim said she learned that fraudulent charges had been made to her credit card at a Miami spa, charges which she did not authorize.
On Feb. 15, the victim texted Works 'I would like you to stop using my car, return it to my house today or I will press charges.' She also told deputies to list her Mercedes-Benz E-Class as stolen.
The next day, a deputy drove by Work's house and found the victim's car in the driveway.
An officer with the Port St. Lucie Police Department later conducted a traffic stop on the stolen car, according to the affidavit. Works was placed into custody and taken to the St. Lucie County Jail.
On Wednesday, March 19, detectives with the St. Lucie County Sheriff's Office executed a search warrant at Works' home.
Works was charged with scheme to defraud, fraudulent use of credit cards and criminal use of personal identification.
'Fraud and elder abuse are crimes that not only violate the law but also betray the trust of our most vulnerable citizens. We will continue to take a strong stance against those who exploit and harm others for personal gain,' said Sheriff Richard Del Toro.
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