Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office has taken a woman into custody on charges of exploiting an elderly patient for more than $7,000.
Deputies were called to the scene last Tuesday, responding to a situation unfolding in the 14000 block of Clubhouse Circle in Tampa, according to a press release from the Sheriff's Office. The victim, who depends on others due to hospice care, reported a financial betrayal, which deputies traced back to a Shawn Livingston, a 57-year-old home health aide.
An investigation revealed that Livingston manipulated the patient into using Zelle for the payment of her services. However, instead of simply collecting payment, she siphoned off funds to her coffers—settling debts, funnelling money to Carnival Cruises, and committing a series of fraudulent transactions starting January 28, 2025. Livingston was arrested on Friday and faces a slew of charges, including exploitation of an elderly person and grand theft, the office reported.
Sheriff Chad Chronister condemned the actions in no uncertain terms. "The actions of this individual are unacceptable and despicable. Preying on a hospice patient, someone who relies on others for care and support, is a heartless and disgraceful betrayal," Chronister said.
