BSO BUSTS CAREGIVER STEALING FROM DEERFIELD BEACH SENIORS

Detectives with the Broward Sheriff’s Office Deerfield Beach District arrested a suspect who posed as a caregiver to prey on elderly victims, stealing thousands of dollars from them. Investigators believe there may be additional victims and are asking anyone with information to come forward.

In early October, BSO detectives received a report that an elderly man was being exploited by an unknown female subject. The woman posed as a caregiver at the B’nai B’rith apartments in Deerfield Beach. According to detectives, the elderly male victim let her into his apartment where the woman accessed his bank card. She withdrew money from his account multiple times totaling $1,600. Through investigative means, detectives identified the suspect as 26-year-old Jamisha Shamari Sylvain.

During the investigation, detectives learned that several other similar incidents occurred where Sylvain pretended to be a professional caregiver and convinced the vulnerable victims that she was authorized to enter their apartments. In some cases, she pretended to be a new caregiver assigned by the victim’s health insurance company. While inside their apartments, she stole their debit cards and told them she needed their personal banking information.

Through a coordinated effort between the Broward Sheriff’s Office, Deerfield Beach District Criminal Investigations Unit (CI), Deerfield Beach District Crime Suppression Team (CST) and Deerfield Beach District Operational & Tactical Intelligence Center (OTIC), investigators were able to secure an arrest warrant for Sylvain. On Friday, Dec.19, she was located and booked into the BSO Main Jail on charges that include occupied burglary, elderly exploitation, criminal use of personal identification information, theft of credit card and grand theft 65 or older.

Please read and follow the tips below to help protect you and your loved ones from falling victim to this scam:

• Verify caregiver and aids: Always confirm identity, credential and references before allowing anyone access to your home or finances.

• Regularly monitor financial accounts: Review bank statements and credit reports for unfamiliar changes.

• Involve a trusted friend or family member: Before giving out financial information, ask a friend or family member if the request or situation seems suspicious.

• Report it early: The sooner suspicious activity is reported, the more likely losses can be stopped.

The investigation into these incidents is active and ongoing. If you live in a BSO jurisdiction and believe you or someone you know are a victim of a similar scam, call BSO’s non-emergency number at 954-764-HELP (4357).

Deerfield Beach CI, CST, OTIC, Patrol