Montgomery County Caregiver Admits To Theft Of Client
By Brad Segall
UPPER GWYNEDD, Pa. (CBS) -- A Montgomery County woman who had power of attorney for a disabled stroke victim has admitted in court that she stole more than $300,000 from the man while she was caring for him. (read related story)
Janet Gitney pleaded guilty to three felony charges, including theft and conspiracy that could land her behind bars for more than a decade. The 58-year-old Upper Gwynedd woman admitted she fraudulently transferred the deed to 57-year-old Eugene Waldspurger's Hatfield home into her name and stole money from his bank account and retirement funds.
"Well certainly anyone with power of attorney to handle somebody else's finances is put in a position of great trust," says prosecutor Steven Latzer. "And when they proceed to then steal that money, it's the ultimate betrayal."
Prosecutors say Gitney conspired with her husband, 38-year-old Anthony Gitney, to steal the proceeds. She was arrested late last year after returning from the Philippines. Prosecutors say she fled the country because she felt the heat of a police investigation.
Defense attorney Greg Nester says his client is remorseful and takes full responsibility for her actions.
