TUCSON, Ariz. (AP) - State prosecutors say five people are facing charges in connection with the theft ring that allegedly targeted the elderly in Tucson and Oro Valley.
A joint investigation involving the Tucson and Oro Valley police departments and the Arizona Attorney General's Office uncovered the alleged thefts.
So far, authorities say eight victims have lost more than $34,000.
They say 44-year-old Kathryn Louise Hess is believed to have led the ring.
Hess reportedly worked for several caregiving agencies that provided in-home care to elderly and adult clients.
Investigators believe Hess stole checkbooks, cash, credit cards and personal items from people for whom she was caring.
Hess and four other suspects are facing charges of fraud, forgery, credit card theft, ID theft, trafficking in stolen property and theft/financial exploitation of a vulnerable adult.
