Investigators in Jefferson County say a 45-year-old woman went on a nearly five-year spending spree using more than $450,000 of her father’s money while he had dementia, allegations authorities are calling disturbing.
Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office investigators accuse Angella Lavine of misusing the money from 2019 through early 2024. Instead of using the funds for her father’s care, investigators say she spent it on airline tickets, a cruise, trips to Las Vegas and Delta Downs, paying off a car and numerous personal items. Her father later died.
Lavine is accused in a first-degree felony case. If convicted, she could face up to life in prison.
Prosecutors say the case underscores what they describe as a growing problem of elder financial abuse, and Southeast Texas law enforcement is urging families to recognize warning signs before it is too late. Officials say older adults are frequently targeted because they are among the community’s most vulnerable, and they warn that those closest to a victim can sometimes be the ones taking advantage.
While Texas imposes tougher penalties for crimes against elderly victims, officials say prevention often starts at home. Families are encouraged to stay involved in loved ones’ finances, watch for unusual bank activity or missing property, and pay attention if an elderly relative suddenly seems fearful, confused or mentions being asked to sign unfamiliar documents.
“This is the generation that raised us. This is the generation that has taken care of us, when you target the most vulnerable population, whether it be little children or the elderly. You know, we’re going to come after you with a hammer,” District Attorney Brit Featherston said.
Sheriff Zena Stephens urged people to monitor accounts and contact authorities if something seems wrong. “Ask to see bank statements, even if you’re elderly, ask to kind of keep up with where you have your money. But if you feel like something’s going on, reach out. We do welfare checks on people physically. We can also do welfare checks on people with their banking information,” Stephens said.
Officials also warned families to pay close attention to caretakers or anyone in close proximity to an elderly relative.