Los Altos Police Arrest Caregiver for Alleged Financial Elder Abuse, Forgery

News from the Los Altos Police Department:

On December 17, 2015, Los Altos Police Officers were contacted by a bank employee who reported suspicious activity had occurred on the bank account belonging to a 95 year old Los Altos resident.

The investigation revealed that the suspect was San Bruno resident Mahe Puipui, DOB: 10/23/1979, an in home caregiver for the victim. The suspect, employed by A1 Care of San Bruno, had taken several personal checks from the victim, wrote them out to herself, and cashed or deposited them. The total loss is believed to be approximately $20,000.

The suspect was located the same day and taken into custody for financial elder abuse and forgery and was booked into the Santa Clara County Main Jail.

Investigators notified the suspect’s employer as well as Adult Protective Services and are currently working to identify any additional victims from Los Altos and surrounding jurisdictions. Anyone with information related to this investigation is encouraged to contact the Los Altos Police Department Investigations Unit at(650) 947-2700 or their local police department.

Financial crimes are a common form of elder abuse and often involve a trusted individual such as a family member or caregiver. The best way to prevent financial elder abuse is to stay involved in your loved ones life and be aware of warning signs such as:

• Bank statements no longer coming to the victim’s home.
• Changes in banking, beneficiaries or power of attorney
• Missing or forged checks
• Large or unexplained bank transfers or withdrawals.

If you suspect you or a loved one has been the target of financial elder abuse contact your local police department.