2 Home Health Workers Charged in Theft Cases

Two employees of a home health care company have been charged with exploitation of an elderly person after Hillsborough County Sheriff’s deputies say they swiped items belonging to those in their care.

The first arrest of a Hanson Services employee was made July 14 when deputies brought Kathy Elliot, 66, into custody. Elliot, deputies say, took large amounts of jewelry from clients’ homes and sold them at local pawn shops. The Ruskin woman’s victims, an email to media from the sheriff’s office states, are 67 and 98.

Elliot was charged with two counts each of exploitation of an elderly person, grand theft, dealing in stolen property and giving false information to a pawn broker. Additional charges are pending.

The second arrest came July 16 when deputies brought Anita Puskas, 42, into custody. The Riverview woman is accused of taking money out of an 87-year-old woman’s bank account. She has been charged with grand theft, exploitation of an elderly person and 12 counts of fraudulent use of a credit card.

Both Elliot and Puskas worked for Hanson Services, a home health care company, the sheriff’s office email stated.

Deputies say the investigation continues and are asking for any additional victims to contact them at 813-247-8200.

Booking photos of Anita Puskas and Kathy Elliot courtesy of the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office