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On March 15, 2019, a victim of credit card fraud made a report to the Simi Valley Police Department. The Police Department’s Detective Bureau undertook an investigation into the alleged crimes. As part of the investigation it was learned the victim hired 47-year-old Sheri Smollen several years prior. Initially Smollen provided part time house cleaning and dog walking services. As time went on, the relationship evolved into that of a caregiver for the victim, who is dealing with the advanced stages of a terminal disease. The investigation into the credit card fraud revealed Smollen to be a suspect. It is alleged that Smollen used the victim’s credit cards to make purchases, which totaled over $11,000 over approximately six months.

On April 1, 2019, Simi Valley Detectives arrested Smollen for fiduciary abuse of a dependent adult and identity theft. Smollen was booked at the Ventura County Jail for these charges.

This case highlights the need to be extremely careful when it comes to hiring caregivers or anyone performing services in your home. Take the time to research the best ways to get the help you need and look to trusted sources for information. Health care professionals as well as home care agencies can provide valuable information. If not working with an agency to hire a caregiver, always conduct a background check of anyone you are considering for hire. There are many ways to accomplish the background check from using a private investigation firm to an online background investigation company. Although background checks are not a complete safeguard against criminal activity, past behavior is generally a good indicator of future behavior.