Richland Waitress Accused of Stealing From Elderly Man

A 48-year-old Richland woman is facing theft charges after authorities discovered she'd been stealing money from an elderly man who suffers from dementia and other disorders.

Sandra R. Gray is facing a count of First Degree Theft for allegedly stealing thousands of dollars from the 81-year-old man.  They first met in 2009 at her waitressing job at a Richland restaurant.

Officials say she took advantage of the man, who was diagnosed with moderate dementia. In 2013 a neurologist found abnormalities with the man's memory, attention, concentration and language skills.

Court documents show Gray came into possession of the man's home, he signed over to her in 2012.  She also reportedly wrote several checks from the man's bank accounts, which he had given control to her around that time.

The theft charges claim she wrote a total of 21 checks to herself using the man's bank account between October 2013 and August 2014 for a total of nearly $20,000. Other financial irregularities were also found concerning the man's money and Gray.

The man used to be cared for by his wife, but she died 8 years ago. He had a step-granddaughter in the Tri-City area, who said the man had come under the "influence" of Gray over the last few years.  He had suffered a significant stroke over 20 years ago. Officials also say the man signed over power of attorney to Gray last September, replacing his step-son.

The allegations came to light after a guardian ad litem accompanied the man to the neurological and health care checkup. They noticed he couldn't correctly count the money needed to pay for the service, and exhibited other alarming signs he might be at risk for what is being called financial abuse.

Gray is denying any wrongdoing.