Woman Accused Of Stealing More Than $300,000 From Former Westport Physician: Police

WESTPORT, CT — A 75-year-old Newtown woman is facing larceny and identity theft charges, after police said she is alleged to have stolen more than $300,000 from a former business associate in Westport.

Laura King turned herself in at Westport Police Headquarters on Tuesday and was arrested on charges of first-degree larceny, first-degree identity theft, and conspiracy to commit first-degree larceny.

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According to Westport Police Lt. Anthony Prezioso, the case began in October 2021 when "an attorney and court-appointed conservator for the estate of Dr. David Beck" filed a complaint with police "alleging impropriety in the handling of assets associated with the estate."

"Through an extensive investigation and the review and audit of numerous financial records, it is alleged that Laura King authorized expenditures as well as credit and identity usage exceeding $300,000.00 that were made in her and her family's self-interests, and not to the benefit of Dr. Beck," Prezioso said in a statement.

Before the attorney was appointed conservator, King, reportedly Beck's medical assistant for nearly 20 years, held power of attorney over him and his estate, according to Prezioso.

Beck, who retired in 2019 and suffered from dementia in his final years, passed away on April 14, 2022. He had served as the police department's physician for several years, performing pre-employment physical screenings and annual physical examinations for sworn personnel, Prezioso said.

Following the investigation, Westport police obtained a warrant for King, which led to her arrest on Tuesday.

King was initially held in lieu of bail of $300,000, but that figure was reduced to $25,000 at her arraignment, and she was released after posting bond on the smaller amount.

Her next scheduled appearance in Stamford Superior Court is set for May 26.