Rumford Maine Woman Is Accused of Elder Abuse

A Rumford woman is accused of mistreating an elderly family member, including allegedly taking money without permission.

Rumford Woman Was Arrested for Elder Abuse and Financial Exploitation

Sharon Gardner, 59, of Rumford faces multiple charges:

• Theft by unauthorized taking or transfer
• Misuse of identification
• Endangering the welfare of a dependent person

Gardner was taken to the Oxford County Jail, where bail was set at $1,000.

Gardner is Accused of Cutting Off Others' Communication With the Elderly Victim

The arrest was the result of a two-week investigation into Gardner's alleged handling of a family member, for whom she was the primary caretaker. Rumford Police say Gardner allegedly diverted more than $1,000 from the elderly family member for her own benefit.

READ MORE: Maine Survivors of Domestic Abuse Share Their Strength

She's also accused of using the family member's debit card multiple times without authorization. This included a period of time when that family member was hospitalized.

In addition to the alleged financial exploitation, authorities say she allegedly restricted the person's access to any outside contact. Gardner allegedly limited their cell phone use and their communication with others.

Out of concern for the victim's welfare, and the apparent scope of the exploitation, Gardner was arrested before the investigation was fully completed. She has since been arraigned and released, pending trial. Gardner is not allowed to have any contact with the victim.

This investigation is ongoing. Officials say more charges against Gardner, and potentially against any other co-conspirators, are possible.

We'll update this story as more details become available.

Mainers Who Suspect An Elderly Person is Being Abused Should Report It

Anyone who suspects Elder Abuse is urged to contact their local police department or the Maine Department of Health and Human Services Adult Protective Services at 1-800-624-8404.