A Bayfield woman who stole more than $3,000 from an at-risk adult was sentenced Monday to three years probation.
Jimi Hendricks, 46, was shaking and crying in 6th Judicial District Court as she apologized for her actions. She said she misses working at Community Connections and caring for the 79-year-old man from whom she stole.
“All I can do is apologize, and whatever I can do to make it right, I will do,” she said.
Hendricks pleaded guilty May 2 to felony identity theft and unlawful use of a financial transaction device.
Hendricks was employed with Community Connections, a Durango nonprofit that provides assistance to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. She provided daily care to a 79-year-old man for more than two years, including helping manage his money. But between July and February, she used his debit card for personal use, including groceries, automotive parts, pet food, DVDs/CDs, pillows, curtains and a home printer. She also used it for ATM withdrawals and the cash-back option at Walmart, according to an arrest affidavit.
A case worker at Community Connections discovered the thefts after reviewing the client’s financial transactions and questioned purchases of gasoline and automotive parts because the client doesn’t own a car, according to the arrest affidavit.
Her public defender, John Moran, said Hendricks is “ashamed” of her actions. She is a single parent who is also providing care for her mother. It is the first time she has been in trouble with the law, Moran said.
In addition to serving three years on probation, Hendricks must complete 48 hours of public service and pay restitution of at least $3,377.90.
