Woman admits financially exploiting elderly aunt in Addison
A Westchester woman faces up to 15 years in prison after admitting she misappropriated tens of thousands of dollars belonging to her elderly aunt in Addison.
Elizabeth Stallone, 61, pleaded guilty in DuPage County court Monday to financial exploitation of an elderly person.
Stallone began writing unauthorized checks from her then-82-year-old aunt’s bank accounts within days of assuming the elderly relative’s power of attorney in December 2007, authorities said. She used some of the money to pay expenses at her home business, Carnegie Printers, and went shopping at Kohl’s, Lane Bryant and Overstock.com, among other locations.
Assistant State’s Attorney Diane Michalak said police launched an investigation after a family member reported suspicious financial activity. Relatives told police Stallone assumed power of attorney after her aunt began exhibiting signs of dementia and stopped paying her bills.
Prosecutors have said Stallone took at least $300,000, including $124,000 in checks written to herself, her business partner and her business.
But defense attorney Linda Perry said Monday the figure is “in dispute” and would be addressed when her client goes before Judge Kathryn Creswell for sentencing.
Stallone faces four to 15 years in prison but also could receive probation. She is free on bond and has no prior criminal record.
Her next court date is Oct. 31.