PALMER TWP., Pa. – A Northampton County woman is accused of financially exploiting her three elderly clients.

The Palmer Township resident allegedly stole tens-of-thousands of dollars’ worth of items, including keepsakes that can’t be recovered.

“It’s heartbreaking,” said Stephen Baratta, Northampton County District Attorney.

45-year-old Nicole Daley was responsible for the care of the elderly clients and allegedly stole their cash, forged their checks, used their credit cards and took their jewelry.

“Not only do they lose money financially, but the emotional toll on these elderly people is significant,” said Baratta.

Baratta said Daley provided at-home care for women ages 90, 88 and 84 years-old.

Last month, police were called to the area of Hope Ridge Drive in Bethlehem Township for reports of a theft. Investigators found thousands of dollars’ worth of checks belonging to the 90-year-old woman. They were made payable to Daley’s husband and contained the victim’s forged signature. Authorities said Daley also took the woman’s cash, jewelry and credit card.

Police said valuable jewelry was also stolen and sold from the 84-year-old and 88-year-old victims, including a 1948 Easton class ring.

“There were deliveries and exchanges at a pawn shop, and all the jewelry, as far as we’ve been able to tell, was melted down, so they’re complete losses,” said Baratta.

Northampton County Deputy District Attorney Michael Weinert said a motive is unknown, but they have an idea.

“I think, like any type of financial crime. You’re motivated by money,” said Weinert. “The type of purchases she was making from the credit card were actually related to babies. It appears as though the defendant’s daughter was pregnant.”

Baratta said families need to be vigilant with regard to care and services provided to the elderly.

If they suspect any problems, they are urged to call police.

“Surprisingly, about 90% of the victimization is by people who are close to and know the victims fairly well,” said Baratta.

Daley is being held at the Northampton County Prison on a $100,000 bail.

A preliminary hearing is scheduled for December 23.