Manhattan District Attorney Alvin L. Bragg Jr. today released details of an indictment involving a home health aide, Jerona Smith, accused of stealing a combined sum of $24,000 from two elderly clients, with an additional attempted theft of $54,000. The indictment, reported by the Manhattan District Attorney's office, charges the 47-year-old Smith with grand larceny, attempted grand larceny, identity theft, and possession of stolen property.

According to court documents, Smith's alleged theft occurred over several months while she attended to two individuals who depended on her care due to serious health issues, including advanced dementia and osteoporosis with multiple back fractures. One 70-year-old woman, with dementia, was bilked of approximately $19,000, "As alleged, Jerona Smith broke the trust that her clients instilled in her by stealing their hard-earned money," Bragg highlighted the gravity of the betrayal, according to Manhattan District Attorney's office.

The Manhattan DA's announcement stated that Smith exploited the victims' bank and credit card accounts for personal gain while under her care between mid-June and mid-July 2023 for one client, and from February to December 2023 for another. The prosecution is overseen by the Elder Abuse Unit with Assistant D.A. Raphaelle Monty leading the charge.

Smith now faces the consequences of her actions, with the District Attorney's office urging individuals over 60 who may be victims of similar crimes to come forward. This case highlights the vulnerability of the elderly, especially those reliant on the integrity of caregivers entrusted with their livelihoods. As the Manhattan District Attorney's office emphasized, "My Office will continue to prosecute those who prey on the vulnerability of older New Yorkers in their care," Bragg assured concerned citizens.