I’m Retired and I Think People Are Stealing Money From My House: What Can I Do?

If you’re retired and aging in place, various people might be coming and going every day. These might include landscapers, home care nurses, delivery people, caregivers, relatives, neighbors, and volunteers. What if you suspect that someone has been stealing cash or valuables from your home? What are your legal options in this situation? Can an elder financial abuse lawyer in Palm Beach County help?

The People Closest to You Are Statistically More Likely to Steal From You

Although people might dismiss your concerns as “paranoia,” statistics clearly show that the people closest to you are more likely to steal from you. These might include people who have regular, easy access to your home. Even a close relative could be tempted by large amounts of cash and other valuables left around in your home. These people are also more likely to know where cash might be hidden.

Can I Install Hidden Cameras? 

You are free to install cameras in your own home. However, Florida is an all-party consent state when it comes to wiretapping laws. In other words, your cameras cannot be hidden. If you’re hoping to catch someone in the act, this might be challenging. Technically speaking, you are legally required to inform people in your home about the cameras. You could face criminal charges for illegally recording people without their permission.

Can I Put Tracking Devices on My Valuables?

Yes, you could theoretically put tracking devices on your valuables in an attempt to catch a potential thief in the act. It is relatively easy to obtain tracking devices, such as Apple AirTags. However, Florida also has strict laws against unauthorized tracking. Before you attempt this strategy, you might want to speak with an experienced attorney.

Contact Florida Adult Protective Services

With Florida’s high senior population, it should come as no surprise that the government takes elder financial abuse very seriously. The state has even set up its own hotline to combat this kind of thing. You can dial 1-800–96-ABUSE to report incidents of financial abuse. You can also visit myflfamilies.com to file a report online.

You May Need to Revoke Powers of Attorney

If you believe that someone with power of attorney is stealing from your home, you might need to revoke their status. Even if you believe that they are simply stealing items, this conduct could escalate into stealing money from your bank account. Check your bank account balances for any unusual activity.

Can an Elder Financial Abuse Lawyer in Palm Beach County Help Me? 

If you suspect someone might be stealing money from your home, you have every right to investigate further. This is a common form of financial elder abuse, and an experienced elder law attorney in Palm Beach County could help you assess your legal options. Florida has strict laws against elder abuse, and those responsible could face felony charges. Consider expanding on this conversation with Kitroser Lewis & Mighdoll.

Sources: 

leg.state.fl.us/Statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0900-0999/0934/Sections/0934.03.html

flsenate.gov/Laws/Statutes/2019/934.425