States Attorney
WOMAN CHARGED IN THEFT FROM 61 YEAR-OLD QUADRIPLEGIC WOMAN
WHEATON - DuPage County State’s Attorney Joseph E. Birkett today announced that Latasha Powell, 34 (d.o.b. 3/11/72) of 512 Alton Court, Carol Stream, has been charged with two counts of Theft for allegedly stealing jewelry from a sixty-one year-old quadriplegic woman.
Beginning in June, through July of this year, it is alleged that Powell, one of the victim’s caregivers, stole the merchandise from the victim while she was taking care of her in her home. The theft was discovered by the victim who immediately notified the Bensenville Police Department. Through their investigation, Bensenville Police learned that Powell allegedly stole the items and then would sell the stolen items at local pawn shops. The value of the missing jewelry is estimated at between $6,900 and $13,000. To date, none of the items have been recovered.
“What Latasha Powell is accused of doing is absolutely deplorable,” commented Birkett. “Our victim, a sixty-one year-old quadriplegic woman, put her trust, confidence and even her well-being into the hands of Latasha Powell. It is alleged that Ms. Powell repaid that trust with lies, deception and theft.”
Powell appeared in Bond Court Tuesday, December 12, and was ordered held on $10,000 bond with 10% to apply. She posted $1,000 bond this afternoon and was released. Her next court appearance is scheduled for January 8, 2007 in front of Judge Robert Anderson.
If found guilty of the counts Powell faces penalties of up to seven years in the Illinois Department of Corrections.
Members of the public are reminded that this complaint contains only charges and is not proof of the defendant’s guilt. A defendant is presumed innocent and is entitled to a fair trial in which it is the government’s burden to prove his or her guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
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