Ginger Kinney, 46, from Mt. Perry, has pleaded guilty to two counts of theft from the elderly, which can carry a sentence of up to eleven years in prison. In a case that underscores oft-ignored plights within American families, Kinney admitted to defrauding her father of over $187,000 – with allegations that the total sum might exceed $200,000. According to an official statement from the Muskingum County Prosecutor's Office, the larger figures will likely be dismissed at her sentencing as they are part of the broader theft charges.
The victim, Thomas Taylor, 85, initially granted Kinney Power of Attorney in 2010, entrusting her with the heavy responsibility of safeguarding his interests. The alleged financial misdeeds, stretching from 2009 to 2021, came to light after Taylor revoked this authority from Kinney and appointed his other daughters instead. In a statement obtained by the Muskingum County Prosecutor's Office, it was revealed that Kinney had failed to properly manage rental incomes from properties and engaged in unauthorized credit card transactions using her father's accounts.
Detective Brad Shawger's investigation delved into extensive financial records, uncovering a pattern of misuse and self-enrichment, including paying Kinney's bills with Taylor's funds. Moreover, large amounts of money that should have been deposited into the joint account she held with her father were found to be missing. "Financial fraud cases are difficult to investigate and prosecute, but protecting our elders is an essential service for this community, and we take the challenge head-on,” Assistant Prosecuting Attorney Michael Hughes told the Muskingum County Prosecutor's Office.
