MILLSBORO, DELAWARE (12/25/2014) A Millsboro woman and two of her adult children are accused in the theft of more than $129,000 from an elderly woman, state police say.
Tammy Lynn Willis, 53, a former caregiver and neighbor of the victim, had been given power of attorney and wrote large amounts of checks from the victim’s account to herself, police said.
The investigation began in February when the 91-year-old victim complained to police.
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Police said Willis used the victim’s checks and credit card to make purchases for herself totaling more than $82,000, including buying a 2003 Pontiac Aztek SUV.
Willis also wrote checks for roof repairs to her son, Ricky Pennington, 36, of Lewes, but the work was never completed, police said.
Checks also were written to her daughter, Amanda Willis, 30, of Millsboro, for in-home care that the victim never received, police said.
Tammy Lynn Willis was arrested Friday and charged with theft with property value over $100,000, exploiting resources of an infirm adult over $50,000 and conspiracy. She was being held at Baylor Women’s Correctional Institution in lieu of $61,000 secured bond.
Amanda Willis was arrested Monday and charged with theft over $1,500 and victim is 62 or older or infirm, conspiracy and abuse, neglect, exploit or mistreatment of an infirm adult. She was released on $35,000 unsecured bond.
Pennington is still being sought on charges of theft over $1,500 and victim is 62 or older or infirm, conspiracy and abuse.
Police asked anyone with information to call Detective T. Shockley at 302-856-5850, ext. 257.
Tips also may be submitted anonymously through Delaware Crime Stoppers, which offers rewards, at 800-847-3333 or www.tipsubmit.com.