Constance Marie Roberts, 68, of Flint, pled no contest to one count of Embezzlement from a Vulnerable Adult $20,000-$50,000 and one count of Taxes-Failure to File/False Return/Payment in the 7th Circuit Court in Genesee County after obtaining large sums of money and multiple vehicles from the vulnerable adult victim, Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel announced. Under the terms of the plea, Roberts must agree to a $500,000 restitution order, make a $30,000 cash payment toward restitution at or before the date of sentencing, and agree to forfeit six motor vehicles to be auctioned to go toward the restitution.
“Older adults deserve to live their golden years free of worry and exploitation,” Nessel said. “Unfortunately, some take advantage of the trust and vulnerability that often accompany aging. My office is dedicated to prosecuting those who prey on our most vulnerable, ensuring that they not only face legal consequences but also repay their victims to the fullest extent possible.”
Roberts was in a long-term relationship with her victim, a married man 20 years her senior. Throughout their relationship, the victim would occasionally give Roberts small gifts of money and property. Once the victim began experiencing symptoms of cognitive decline, Roberts stole from his checking and savings accounts between 2018 and 2021.
In addition to the theft, Roberts failed to report the income on her Michigan tax returns. As part of the plea agreement, Roberts also must agree to a restitution order for the Michigan Department of Treasury in the amount of $52,215, which will take second priority to the restitution order for the victim.
Roberts will be sentenced in front of Judge Mark Latchana in the 7th Circuit Court on October 28 at 10 a.m.
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