A 53-year-old woman, Ammie Padilla, appeared in Broward County bond court Saturday after being charged with 42 counts of fraud involving elderly victims.
Padilla, arrested Friday in Coral Springs, was accused of committing crimes while working as an accounting contractor for Elder Solutions, a Lauderhill-based company providing guardians and geriatric care managers.
Circuit Judge Betsy Benson noted that Padilla no longer works for Elder Solutions, is employed with an engineering firm, and is prohibited from returning to caretaker work or contacting elderly individuals.
A prosecutor told the court that Padilla managed the company’s books, oversaw funds for elderly clients, and held power of attorney over one victim during the alleged crimes.
Padilla was booked into the Paul Rein Detention Facility in Pompano Beach. Judge Benson ordered her to stay away from witnesses and follow pre-trial house arrest rules with a GPS monitor if released on bond.
She faces multiple charges, including:
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First-degree grand theft of $100,000 or more
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Exploitation of the elderly of $100,000 or more
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Exploitation of the elderly of $20,000 or more
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Obtaining property over $50,000 by fraud
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Larceny and fraudulent use of credit cards
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Forgery of bank notes and checks (15 counts)
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Fraud-uttering false instruments (19 counts)
Her bond was set at $210,000, and she must prove that the funds for her bond are not connected to criminal activity.
Authorities ask anyone with information to contact Broward County Crime Stoppers at 954-493-8477. Tips can be submitted anonymously.
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