(WNY News Now) – New York Attorney General Letitia James announced the conviction of a former Westchester County caseworker who admitted to stealing hundreds of thousands from a vulnerable senior under her care.
NEW YORK — Attorney General Letitia James announced the guilty plea of Chantel Chenault, a former caseworker with Westchester County Adult Protective Services (APS), who admitted to stealing more than $200,000 from a 95-year-old woman suffering from dementia.
Between March 2017 and June 2022, Chenault exploited her position by gaining access to the victim’s bank accounts, frequently accompanying her to financial institutions and manipulating her into making large cash withdrawals. Investigators found Chenault also used the victim’s ATM card at casinos, including Empire World Casino in Yonkers, without permission.
As the woman’s condition declined, Chenault assumed more responsibility for coordinating her home care. However, it wasn’t until Chenault took medical leave in March 2022 that a new APS caseworker discovered the woman’s bank and retirement accounts were nearly depleted. The sudden financial decline prompted a forensic audit, revealing suspicious withdrawals and ATM activity while the victim was homebound.
In April 2023, a guardian was appointed for the victim, leading to the recovery of $881,062 in restitution from Westchester County. The funds have since been used to support the woman’s medical and housing needs.
Chenault pleaded guilty on June 26 in Westchester County Court to Grand Larceny in the Second Degree, the top charge in the case. She faces up to six months in jail as part of her sentencing.
“Elderly New Yorkers deserves trustworthy caretakers allowing them to live their later years in dignity and security,” said Attorney General James. “Chantel Chenault abused her position to steal a vulnerable woman’s retirement savings, and my office is bringing her to justice. I will continue to go after anyone who tries to manipulate or steal from seniors in need.”
The case was investigated by the Office of the Attorney General’s forensic team, including Auditor Investigator Bashiri Kirven and Deputy Chief Auditor Sandy Bizzarro. The prosecution was led by Assistant Attorney General Nicholas Kyriacou under the supervision of Public Integrity Bureau leadership.
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