NORTH PORT, Fla. — Rozana and Joaquin Venegas of Port Charlotte are charged with felony exploitation of the elderly for over $100,000, with possible additional charges forthcoming.
The 80-year-old North Port resident and victim had been cared for by Rozana and Joaquin, as most of his family lives on the east coast of Florida. He is extremely hard of hearing, which makes it difficult at times to communicate.
The victim was transported to Sarasota Memorial Hospital to treat numerous sores on his body due to not being cared for properly in January.
His family had not been notified of this.
The family spoke with the hospital, and they explained Rozana had completed an “Enhanced General Durable Power of Attorney” without contacting the victim’s family.
On the same day, a large withdrawal was made from his account in the amount of close to $250,000 and put into their bank accounts.
Upon further investigation, there were additional checks made out to Rozana for things like hearing aids and upgrading the house, which was never purchased.
The couple later admitted the checks were used to help pay off their bills.
When the victim was interviewed about this, he stated he didn’t know what his caretakers were trying to say to him, so he agreed, not knowing they were taking money from him.
The couple was arrested and charged for exploiting an elderly man.
North Port Police wants to know if anyone else has worked with Rozana and Joaquin Venegas for caretaking services.
If you recognize the couple or have more information, call or email Detective Chris Clark at cclark@northportpd.com or 941-429-7349.
