POLK COUNTY, Fla. – A 21-year-old Poinciana man who had been performing yard work for an 89-year-old woman for the past six years was arrested this week after allegedly stealing thousands of dollars worth of her jewelry.
Polk County Sheriff’s Office detectives arrested Jamil Andres Rivera on Tuesday, April 22nd, and he now faces multiple felony charges.
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The investigation began after the elderly victim discovered approximately $4,000 in jewelry missing from her bedroom. This discovery came shortly after she found Rivera in an area of her home where he did not have permission to be. When questioned, Rivera reportedly told the woman he was watching a butterfly.
Further investigation revealed a phone call between the victim and Rivera during which he allegedly apologized for taking the jewelry and admitted to selling it. Following this conversation, Rivera ceased all contact with the victim.
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After days of searching, Polk County Sheriff’s Office detectives located Rivera at a residence on Caddy Drive in Poinciana. He was subsequently arrested and taken to the Polk County Jail.
Rivera has been charged with three felonies: Dealing in Stolen Property, Exploitation of the Elderly, and Theft from a Person Over 65.
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