Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich announced today that three individuals have been indicted in a financial exploitation scheme that targeted an elderly Cincinnati resident, draining the victim’s bank account and leaving her living in squalor.

A Hamilton County grand jury in January returned indictments against Thomas Dukes, Fray Chaney, and Jennifer Smith, all of East Price Hill. Dukes, 74, and Chaney, 23, were indicted on charges of theft from a person in a protected class, identity fraud against a person in a protected class and telecommunications fraud. Smith, 46, was indicted on a charge of theft. All three have since been arrested and their cases are proceeding through the court process.

According to investigators, the defendants befriended the 87-year-old victim at church, targeting her for exploitation. They obtained power of attorney and withdrew money totaling $70,000 from the victim’s bank account for personal use. Investigators said Dukes and Chaney pretended to be the victim and purchased a Tesla online through Carvana in the victim’s name, a purchase that totaled $52,000. Smith separately stole the victim’s Cadillac. Total losses are estimated at more than $122,000.

The exploitation came to light when a neighbor noticed problems at the home and called a relative of the victim, who showed up at the home only to be turned away by Dukes. Bank employees were also helpful. They noticed large sums of money being withdrawn from the victim’s account and were worried about the victim’s condition when she did in-person banking. They reported their concerns to Hamilton County Adult Protective Services, which along with police did a welfare check. The victim is now receiving proper care.

“These charges reflect the calculated exploitation of an elderly victim,” Pillich said. “My office will seek accountability for the harm that was done. This is exactly why I strengthened the Elder Justice Unit. We will make sure seniors are protected.”

For suspected abuse or neglect contact Adult Protective Services at 513-421-5433. For suspected financial exploitation contact the Elder Justice Unit at 513-946-7226.