A former nursing home aide admitted to stealing tens of thousands of dollars from a vulnerable resident in Rochester.
Rachel Paillet, who worked at The Pearl Nursing Center, pleaded guilty Thursday to grand larceny after investigators said she drained a resident’s bank account over several months.
The Attorney General’s Office said Paillet stole the resident’s debit card and used it to make 220 ATM withdrawals between April and November. Prosecutors said the theft totaled more than $60,000.
Investigators with the Medicaid Fraud Control Unit found that the resident’s card was meant to cover incidental expenses and monthly nursing home payments. The crime came to light when a payment to the facility was declined for insufficient funds.
Authorities said Paillet withdrew cash at ATMs around the Rochester area, including locations at Delta Sonic, Wegmans, and Tops. She used the stolen money on groceries, bills, and lottery tickets, according to prosecutors.
Attorney General Letitia James said the case highlights the importance of protecting nursing home residents from abuse and exploitation.
Paillet pleaded guilty to third-degree grand larceny in Monroe County Court. She faces a sentence of 30 to 60 days in jail, five years of probation, and an order to pay restitution.
The Attorney General’s Office urged anyone with concerns about nursing home abuse or neglect to report it to the Medicaid Fraud Control Unit.
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