Kingston Police Department reported the arrest of two individuals accused of exploiting an elderly or vulnerable adult. Lewis Walker, 30, and Linda Shultz, 71, are faced with the charge, following an investigation by the authorities in partnership with Adult Protective Services. This inquiry began in June 2024 as they discovered the alleged mistreatment happening at a residence on Hope Circle. The victim was forced to endure living in a shed without basic amenities and was charged unreasonably for such arrangements.
As WATE reports, the victim had to pay $300 per month for the shed with no bathroom or running water, and an additional $100 monthly to use a microwave. The investigators found that Walker and Shultz had access to the victim's financial accounts, proceeding to make numerous unauthorized transactions. Despite the removal of the victim from the precarious living conditions by Adult Protective Services, the duo allegedly continued to illicitly withdraw funds and make purchases using the victim's money.
According to information from WVLT, some of the unauthorized expenses included a $2,000 car, grocery purchases, utility bills, and charges on the online content platform OnlyFans. Furthermore, law enforcement officials shared with 3B Media News that Captain Keith Kile led the initial investigation with Adult Protective Services, which unearthed this exploitation case.
At the time of the arrest, Lewis Walker was already incarcerated at the Roane County Detention Facility on unrelated charges, where he was served with the new charges. Linda Shultz was arrested at her residence and was also transported to the same detention facility. This case has highlighted the need to closely monitor the treatment of vulnerable adults and the importance of institutions like Adult Protective Services in ensuring their safety and well-being.
