Florida Hospital Worker Accused of Stealing from Elderly Patient

A healthcare worker in Florida has been arrested after allegedly stealing a wallet from a 94-year-old patient and using their credit cards for an unauthorized shopping spree. Bailey Slater, 28, employed as a patient care technician at HCA Florida Brandon Hospital, reportedly took the elderly patient’s wallet on January 22. She then proceeded to make over $500 in purchases with the victim’s credit cards the same day, according to a statement from the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office on Tuesday.

A surveillance image released by the sheriff’s office purportedly shows Slater, disguised with a mask, pushing a shopping cart filled with bags out of a Target store. The incident was identified by hospital officials who then contacted law enforcement. They cooperated with detectives to build the case against Slater.

Taking advantage of some of our most vulnerable community members while entrusted with their care is shameful and reprehensible,” said Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister. “We will make sure justice is served, and we hope anyone considering this kind of behavior understands they will be held accountable.

Slater now faces several charges, including first-degree petit theft, two counts of unauthorized use of a credit card, and two counts of fraudulent use of personal information of an elderly person. A warrant was issued for her arrest, leading her to surrender at the Orient Road Jail last Friday.

The sheriff emphasized the grave nature of the crime and assured the public that justice will be pursued. The investigation into the matter continues as authorities seek to address the violation of trust entrusted to those in caregiving roles.