Palmer Township woman charged in financial exploitation of three elderly victims | Easton Area

PALMER TWP., Pa. – A Palmer Township woman entrusted with caring for elderly clients is accused of exploiting three victims in their 80s and 90s for cash, checks, and jewelry.

Authorities arrested Nicole Daley, of Palmer Township, following an investigation surrounding alleged financial elder abuse involving three victims aged 90, 88, and 84 years old, according to Northampton County District Attorney Stephen G. Baratta.

On Nov. 10, Bethlehem Township Police were dispatched to the area of Hope Ridge Drive in Bethlehem Township for a reported theft involving a 90-year-old victim.

Police say upon arrival, they were advised that multiple checks were made payable to Nicole Daley’s husband. From July through September of this year, Daley was the at-home care assistant for this 90-year-old victim. There were 11 checks totaling $6,700, all of which contained the forged signature of the 90-year-old victim.

Additionally, Daley made unauthorized purchases using the 90-year-old victim’s credit card. The unauthorized purchases totaled over $2,000. Daly also stole $5,000 in cash from this victim.

Finally, the investigation revealed that Daley stole multiple pieces of the victim’s jewelry.

Investigators say that Daley provided in-home care services for two additional elderly women, aged 84 and 88. These victims also reported to police that jewelry was stolen from their homes during the period of time in which Daley was providing care to them.

The police investigation led to a pawn shop located in Nazareth. The owner of the pawn shop informed police that Daley visited the pawn shop 10 times between September and October, where she sold numerous pieces of jewelry. Daley collected $5,395 from selling the jewelry, according to the press release.

Officials say the investigation determined that Daley was selling the jewelry she stole from the three elderly victims. Some of the stolen and sold jewelry included class rings, including a 1948 Easton class ring. Unfortunately, the stolen jewelry could not be recovered.

According to the DA, Daley is charged with Forgery, Access Device Fraud, three counts of Theft by Unlawful Taking, Financial Exploitation of Older Adult or Care Dependant Person, and three counts of receiving stolen property. Daley was arraigned and was remanded to Northampton County Prison in lieu of $100,000.00 bail.