HOCKING COUNTY, Ohio — In recent years, there has been a growing concern about the exploitation of elderly individuals, particularly in cases of financial theft or fraud. Unfortunately, many seniors are vulnerable to these types of crimes due to physical and cognitive limitations, as well as social isolation. In February of 2023, an 82-year-old woman reported a significant theft from her bank account during her stay in a hospital and subsequent visit to a nursing home.
This led to an investigation by Hocking County Sheriff’s Office detectives, who executed numerous search warrants and were able to identify the possible suspects in the case.
After establishing probable cause, arrest warrants were issued for two suspects: the victim’s granddaughter, Tawnee Dougherty, 30, of Logan, and her boyfriend, Travis St. Clair, 40, of Pataskala. On Thursday, March 17, both were taken into custody without incident.
During interviews with the detectives, the suspects confessed to stealing more than $43,000 from the victim’s bank account. The detectives charged both suspects with Theft from the Elderly, a Felony of the 2nd Degree. If convicted, they could spend the next 8 years behind bars.
The suspects were transported to the Regional Jail to await their arraignment.