BRANDON, Fl — A hospital worker in Florida has been arrested after authorities say she stole a wallet from a 94-year-old patient and used the victim’s credit cards to make more than $500 in unauthorized purchases.
According to fox13news.com The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office identified the suspect as 28-year-old Bailey Slater, a patient care technician at HCA Florida Brandon Hospital, located near Tampa. The alleged theft occurred on Jan. 22, according to law enforcement.
Investigators said Slater took the patient’s wallet while the elderly man was under care at the hospital. She then allegedly used the victim’s credit cards to make several purchases that totaled more than $500. Surveillance footage reportedly showed Slater shopping at a Target store with a cart full of items, using the stolen cards to pay for the purchases.
Authorities said the hospital became aware of the missing wallet and reported the incident to local law enforcement. After detectives reviewed security footage and gathered evidence, a warrant was issued for Slater’s arrest.
Slater turned herself in to the Orient Road Jail, where she was booked on multiple charges. She faces first-degree petit theft, unauthorized use of a credit card, and fraudulent use of personal identification of an elderly person, according to reports.
Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister condemned the alleged crime, calling it “shameful and reprehensible.” In a statement, he emphasized the severity of a healthcare worker allegedly exploiting a vulnerable patient, saying that those entrusted with patient care must be held to the highest standard.
The hospital did not immediately comment on the case, but authorities said the investigation is ongoing.