RI State Police Charge Pawtucket Man in Elder Exploitation Investigation
Thursday, August 27, 2020
The Rhode Island State Police announced on Wednesday that members of the Rhode Island State Police Financial Crimes Unit arrested Mark W. Harmon, age 62, of Pawtucket on two counts of Exploitation of an Elder; three counts of Unlawful Appropriation; and one count of Obtaining Money Under False Pretenses over $1500.
Allegedly, he took over $600,000 from his victims while regularly frequenting Twin River.
According to the State Police, on May 2, 2019, the Rhode Island State Police Financial Crimes Unit received a complaint from the Office of the Attorney General, Elder Abuse Unit regarding Harmon, who allegedly failed to fulfill his power of attorney fiduciary obligations for two elderly Woonsocket women.
GET THE LATEST BREAKING NEWS HERE -- SIGN UP FOR GOLOCAL FREE DAILY EBLASTThe State Police claim, "the victims were financially exploited, drained of their assets and left in significant debt."
According to the State Police, during his time as power of attorney, Harmon allegedly liquidated $391,727.20 worth of US Savings Bonds, sold a victim’s house, liquidated an annuity and misappropriated funds, while frequenting Twin River Casino with the money. During the investigation, two additional victims were identified, and similar activity was discovered. In total, the four elderly victims incurred a combined loss of over $600,000.
A 2016 study found Rhode Island ranks as one of the worst states in the country when it comes to elder abuse protection.
According to a study done by WalletHub, RI ranked 48th out of 51, the study included the District of Columbia.
“Abuse happens every day and takes many forms. Anyone can become a victim of abuse, but vulnerable older Americans — especially those who are women, have disabilities and rely on others for care or another type of assistance — are among the easiest targets for such misconduct. By one estimate, elder abuse affects as many as 5 million people per year, and 96 percent of all cases go unreported,” said WalletHub.
Harmon was arraigned at 6th District Court by Judge Stephen Isherwood and released on $10,000 Personal Recognizance. Judge Isherwood also issued No Contact Orders for the victims. Harmon's next court appearance is scheduled at Providence Sixth District Court on November 23, 2020.
Under Rhode Island General Law 11-68-2 (a) (3), a person found guilty of Elder Exploitation may be imprisoned up to fifteen (15) years and fined up to ten thousand dollars ($10,000), or both.
Under Rhode Island General Law 11-41-11.1, a person found guilty of Unlawful Appropriation may be imprisoned up to twenty (20) years and fined up to fifty thousand dollars ($50,000), or both.
Under Rhode Island General Law 11-41-4, a person found guilty of Obtaining Money Under False Pretenses may be imprisoned up to ten (10) years and fined up to five thousand dollars ($5,000), or both.
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