Palatine Woman Bought SUV, Other Items With Elderly Relative's Debit Card, Checks: Cops

PALATINE, IL — The relative of a Palatine senior citizen is accused of illegally using the family member's debit card and personal checks over a three-month period to buy numerous items for herself, including an SUV, according to police. Candace Matranga-Perez, 36, of the 1100 block of Randville Drive, was arrested and charged Thursday with felony financial exploitation of the elderly after an investigation. Her bail hearing was scheduled for Friday.

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The elderly resident contacted Palatine police Feb. 17 after the victim discovered "a substantial amount" of money missing from a bank account. Detectives investigated the claim, and Matranga-Perez, the victim's relative, was identified as the suspect in the case thanks to video surveillance and other evidence uncovered by police.

According to investigators, Matranga-Perez used access she had to the relative's home to allegedly take the victim's debit card and checks. From Dec. 15 to Feb. 14, she's accused of using the card and the checks to steal cash from the victim's account and buy a variety of personal items, such as a 2011 Ford Explorer. Matranga-Perez allegedly used the debit card more than 100 times at ATMs and stores, police said.

Anyone wanting more information concerning crimes targeting seniors can call the Palatine Police Crime Prevention Unit at 847-359-9061.

Candace Matranga-Perez, 36 (photo via Palatine Police Department)

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