An arrest has been made in connection with a case of financial elder abuse at We Care Elderly Facility located at 3350 El Nido Street, Camarillo, CA, according to a news release by the Ventura County Sheriff's Office. The suspect, identified as Malith Maduranga Mendis, is a 36-year-old resident of Camarillo and also the owner of the facility in question.
The investigation kicked off in June when a resident of the facility discovered unauthorized charges on her bank account and promptly contacted the Camarillo Police Department. Leading to further probe, it was discovered that Mendis and his wife were allegedly using funds from residents’ accounts for their expenses, such as payments on behalf of Mendis, his wife, and his father. On August 8, law enforcement served a search warrant at the care facility and Mendis's home Mendis was deemed responsible for the illicit transactions after a thorough investigation.
Mendis now faces charges for violations of PC 368(d)(1) Financial Elder Abuse and PC 530.5(a) Identity Theft, and has been booked into Ventura County Jail. The case highlights the collaboration between the Camarillo Investigations Bureau, which comprises one sergeant and six detectives, and the State of California Department of Social Services during the service of the search warrant.
The Ventura County Sheriff's Office has expressed gratitude towards the community for their support and information sharing, which plays a crucial role in solving such crimes. Concerned citizens are encouraged to contact the Camarillo Investigations Bureau if they have any information related to financial crimes at the We Care Elderly Facility or if they have been potential victims themselves.
Further, Ventura County Crime Stoppers is offering up to a $1,000 reward for information that leads to an arrest and criminal complaint for anyone responsible for crimes committed at the said facility; tipsters can remain anonymous. Authorities have also reminded the public to stay engaged by following their activities on social media platforms such as X, Facebook, Instagram, and Nixle, where they can receive local law enforcement and public safety alerts. The press release includes a booking photo release and urges those with information to call Crime Stoppers at 800-222-TIPS (8477).
