Former Miami-Dade Corrections Officer Accused of Exploiting Elderly Neighbor
Background
A former Miami-Dade Corrections Officer, 51-year-old Carmelia Newbold, is facing charges of exploiting her elderly neighbor, Thomas Chiappetta, by placing him in an assisted living facility and taking control of all his assets. This is not Newbold’s first run-in with the law; she has previously had a taste of jail.
The Victim
Thomas Chiappetta, a 71-year-old man, was severely mentally disabled, with the mentality of a 9-year-old. He had no family to take care of him, as they had all passed away. His sister, his sole caregiver, passed away in 2020.
The Exploitation
After Chiappetta’s sister’s death, Newbold allegedly created a power of attorney, supposedly signed by Chiappetta, giving her legal authority over the victim and all his assets. However, investigators say Chiappetta was mentally incapable of signing a power of attorney.
Newbold used the fraudulent power of attorney to open a probate case for Chiappetta’s sister’s estate, making herself his personal representative. She then allegedly made a quitclaim deed, deeding the property to herself. She continued to receive Chiappetta’s Social Security checks and life insurance payments.
Investigation and Charges
Broward County Property Appraiser Marty Kiar spoke out about the case, stating, "It’s really sad… it’s very sad because the victim had nobody. He was severely mentally disabled, with the mentality of a 9-year-old. He had nobody to take care of him."
Newbold is charged with exploitation of the elderly and organized fraud.
Conclusion
The exploitation of the elderly is a serious issue, and cases like this showcase the need for increased vigilance and protection for these vulnerable individuals. Newbold’s actions are deplorable, and her charges are well-deserved.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the charges against Carmelia Newbold?
A: Newbold is charged with exploitation of the elderly and organized fraud.
Q: How did Carmelia Newbold exploit Thomas Chiappetta?
A: Newbold exploited Chiappetta by creating a fraudulent power of attorney, using it to take control of his assets, and making herself his personal representative in the probate case for his sister’s estate.
Q: Is this the first time Carmelia Newbold has been in trouble with the law?
A: No, Newbold has previously had a taste of jail.
Q: What is being done to protect the elderly in similar situations?
A: Law enforcement is working to increase awareness and protection for the elderly, and cases like this highlight the importance of vigilance and legal safeguards to prevent exploitation.
