Former Bucks Co. Police Officer Sentenced For Trying To Defraud Elderly Woman

LOWER BUCKS COUNTY, PA — A former part-time police officer for Yardley and Langhorne boroughs was sentenced on Friday in a scheme that targeted an elderly Lower Bucks County resident.

Carlito Cortez, 60, of Richboro, will serve the first 90 days of his sentence in home detention, authorities said. He was sentenced to seven years of restricted probation for a scheme targeting an elderly Langhorne resident.

Cortez — who was charged with criminal attempt to commit theft by deception — also received a concurrent seven-year probationary term for perjury.

The sentencing follows a plea of nolo contendere entered in December, the Bucks County District Attorney's Office said.

Cortez faced charges including criminal attempt to commit theft by deception, securing execution of documents by deception, and official oppression.

He was charged in May 2025 following an investigation by Bucks County Detectives and the 21st Investigating Grand Jury.

Cortez worked part-time for both the Yardley Borough and Langhorne Borough Police Departments.

The investigation revealed that Cortez used his position of authority to build a relationship with the victim. He was originally assigned to investigate a theft at her home in 2020.

He eventually manipulated the woman into signing a last will and testament, authorities said.

He falsely presented the document as a power of attorney. Cortez sought to gain control of her estate, which was valued at more than $500,000.

During the sentencing hearing, Deputy District Attorney Alan J. Garabedian read an impact statement from the victim.

The 77-year-old woman described a total loss of trust in those who offer help. She noted that she now lives in fear and keeps her home locked. The victim stated she is struggling to learn how to trust again. She wrote that she came forward to protect other women from emotional abuse and scare tactics.

As conditions of his sentence, Cortez must have no contact with the victim. He must also undergo a mental health evaluation, complete a decision-making class, and submit a formal letter of apology.