POLK COUNTY, Fla. – A Polk County home health care nurse has been arrested for allegedly stealing more than $140,000 from her blind and elderly patient.
Carrie Hutchinson, 46, of Winter Haven, faces charges of grand theft, exploitation of the elderly, and criminal use of personal identification after investigators found she had taken $141,594 from the 77-year-old victim.
Hutchinson, a certified nursing assistant (CNA), was initially hired in January 2020 to care for the victim’s late wife. After her passing, Hutchinson continued working as the victim’s personal assistant, gaining access to his accounts to pay bills and manage his finances. Her salary was $5,800 per month, which was increased to $6,000 in 2024.
READ: Winter Haven Woman Turns Herself In After Hit And Run With Police Cruiser
In July 2024, the elderly victim grew suspicious of his finances and enlisted the help of a retired chief financial officer friend to review his accounts. The investigation revealed numerous fraudulent transactions, including the purchase of “Pop On Veneers” for $780, a United Airlines ticket for a friend of Hutchinson’s, and a $1,588 payment for a trip to Maine for Hutchinson and four friends. Over 270 Amazon orders totaling $4,774 were also made using the victim’s account, along with ATM withdrawals, payments for cruises, pet supplies, and more.
Hutchinson’s theft spanned four years, during which she used the victim’s money for personal expenses, including vacations, photography classes, and even veterinary bills. Despite earning a substantial monthly salary, she exploited her position of trust to take advantage of the elderly man.
READ :$1 Million Dreams Come True For North Port Woman
In July 2024, upon returning from a cruise, the victim confronted Hutchinson and terminated her employment. Hutchinson admitted to “borrowing” the money to pay for her cruise, stating she intended to repay him but could no longer do so after being fired.
“This woman’s actions are despicable. Taking advantage of an elderly man who entrusted her with his life savings while also paying her a good salary is inexcusable and unforgivable. She is now charged with three very serious felonies,” said Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd.
Please make a small donation to the Tampa Free Press to help sustain independent journalism. Your contribution enables us to continue delivering high-quality, local, and national news coverage.
Android Users: Download our free app to stay up-to-date on the latest news.
Connect with us: Follow the Tampa Free Press on Facebook and Twitter for breaking news and updates.
Sign up: Subscribe to our free newsletter for a curated selection of top stories delivered straight to your inbox.