Introduction to the Incident
SHOREWOOD, Ill. – A caregiver at a suburban assisted living facility is facing multiple charges after police say she tried to flush stolen jewelry and cash down the toilet to avoid arrest.
Details of the Incident
What we know:
Shorewood police were called around 1:40 p.m. Monday to a facility in the 1100 block of North River Road to escort the caregiver from the premises.
Before officers arrived, the caller told dispatchers the woman had allegedly stolen items from a 90-year-old resident and was hiding in a bathroom to evade police and get rid of the evidence.
Police found 54-year-old Maryln Villalobos, of Orland Park, in the women’s restroom attempting to flush jewelry down a toilet, authorities said. Some of the items were recovered from the toilet and Villalobos was taken into custody.
Pictured is 54-year-old Maryln Villalobos, of Orland Park. (Shorewood PD )
Further Investigation and Charges
Officers said that after being taken to the station, Villalobos asked to use the restroom several times.
During one of those occasions, she allegedly attempted to flush additional stolen items — including cash — which officers recovered.
Charges Filed :
Villalobos is charged with financial exploitation of the elderly, residential burglary, burglary, theft and obstructing a peace officer.
She was booked into the Will County Adult Detention Facility pending a pretrial release hearing.
Conclusion
The incident highlights the importance of vigilant oversight in care facilities to protect vulnerable residents from exploitation. It also underscores the severity of the consequences for those who engage in such criminal activities. The case of Maryln Villalobos serves as a reminder of the need for stringent background checks and monitoring of caregivers to ensure the safety and well-being of elderly residents.
FAQs
What were the charges filed against Maryln Villalobos?
Villalobos is charged with financial exploitation of the elderly, residential burglary, burglary, theft, and obstructing a peace officer.
Where was the incident reported?
The incident occurred at a suburban assisted living facility in Shorewood, Illinois.
What led to the discovery of the stolen items?
Police found Villalobos attempting to flush jewelry down a toilet, and later, she attempted to flush additional stolen items, including cash, while at the police station.
What is the current status of Maryln Villalobos?
She was booked into the Will County Adult Detention Facility pending a pretrial release hearing.
