By Julie Montanaro
February 27, 2013
Tallahassee, FL - A Tallahassee woman - who serves as power of attorney for a 78 year old man - is now accused of stealing his life savings.
Barbara Reynolds was arrested for grand theft and exploitation of the elderly.
A phone call to the state of Florida's Abuse Hotline prompted the investigation.
Tallahassee Police say in about a year Reynolds drained the man's bank account from more than $54,000 to just $7.35.
Arrest papers say she spent the money at places like Ross, Payless and even a southside wig shop.
"She was given power of attorney by family members based on her flexible schedule and in their words her "trustworthiness," TPD Spokesman David Northway said. "She also took about 54 thousand dollars we believe at this point."
Arrest papers say Reynolds denied the accusations, saying she used the money to pay the man's bills and fix his house.
The investigator determined the man's monthly social security check covered his living expenses and said when he went to the man's house he could see outside through the holes in the floor.
The police investigator says he tried to interview the 78 year old man, but he says the man could not tell him his age let alone who pays his bills.
