Batavia woman denies exploitation charge

A 47-year-old Batavia woman pleaded not guilty Thursday to charges she and her husband stole thousands of dollars from an elderly person.

Brenda L. Waters, of the 800 block of Main Street, was arraigned in Kane County Circuit Court before Judge Timothy Q. Sheldon. Her husband and co-defendant, Michael J. Waters Sr., 48, also appeared in court but has not entered a plea.

The couple were arrested at their residence in late January after being accused of stealing between $5,000 and $100,000 from an elderly person. In March, Brenda Waters was indicted on three counts of felony theft and financial exploitation of the elderly, prosecutors said.

On Thursday, Sheldon told Waters she could be sentenced to three to seven years in prison if convicted of the most serious charge, or 7 to 14 years if she is eligible for an extended term. She also could face up to $25,000 in fines.

Both Waters and her husband have been unable to post bond and remained in the county jail Thursday.

Public Defender David Kliment said he intends to ask Sheldon to reduce Brenda Waters's $70,000 bond at a hearing on Thursday, May 2. Michael Waters is due back in court May 28.