The FBI has accused a 79-year-old woman from Richmond, VA, of gambling away funds designated for her assisted living residents, resulting in her being sentenced to two years in prison.
Assisted living facilities have the ability to collect state and federal payments on behalf of residents who are unable to independently complete financial transactions. These funds are allocated towards covering essential expenses such as food, clothing, housing, and medical care.
However, starting in December 2015, Mable B. Jones did not utilize the money for that purpose.
Jones has been requested by the FBI to face charges of healthcare fraud, as she allegedly acquired $800,000 in state and federal benefit payments from her residents. These unlawful activities spanned over a period of more than three years. In the spring of 2019, Jones, the previous owner of the assisted living business known as Jones & Jones, decided to close down the facility.
Jackpot chases endangered assisted living residents
According to federal prosecutors and the FBI, while Jones enjoyed frequenting casinos in Las Vegas and Atlantic City, her residents in Richmond suffered the consequences.
In addition to the casino trips, prosecutors claim that Jones misused the resident funds by lying about her expenditures.
- Ensure that all of her personal financial obligations, such as her mortgage and bankruptcy fees, are fully settled.
- Provide financial support for her individual travel, retail acquisitions, and gambling-related expenditures.
According to a sentencing announcement made on September 7th, the diversion of resident benefits by Jones resulted in notable and ongoing shortcomings in the facilities, care, and services offered to the residents of Jones & Jones.
Prosecutors claimed that the deficiencies posed a threat to the health and safety of the residents. They further stated:
The facility’s closure was ultimately prompted by these conditions, leading to state and federal audits.
On September 7, Judge M. Hannah Lauck issued the sentence. The team responsible for maintaining law and order consisted of:
- Jessica D. Aber is currently serving as the U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia.
- The Richmond Field Office of the FBI is headed by Special Agent in Charge, Stanley M. Meador.
- Michael McGill is the Special Agent in Charge of the Philadelphia Field Division of the Social Security Administration Office of the Inspector General.
- Kaitlin G. Cooke and Shea Gibbons are Assistant U.S. Attorneys.
Problem gambling is indicated by criminal behavior.
If you or someone you are acquainted with is struggling with a gambling addiction, reach out by texting or calling 1-888-532-3500. Alternatively, you can engage in an online chat at vcp.net.
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