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Mother, daughter arrested for bilking 93-year-old relative

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By LISA A. DAVIS | The Tampa Tribune

Published: November 6, 2009

Updated: 11/06/2009 10:30 pm

Robin Walgrave

Patience Walgrave

ZEPHYRHILLS - A mother and daughter were arrested by city police Thursday afternoon, accused of bilking their 93-year-old relative, who has dementia and other ailments, for nearly $21,000.

Police say Robin Lynn Walgrave, 39, and Patience Walgrave, 19, were supposed to be taking care of the younger Walgrave's paternal great grandfather, said Capt. Rob McKinney.

According to police reports, the Walgraves took the man to several banks so they could cash numerous checks for their own use between April and October. They did so "being fully aware of his dementia," the report states.

Police placed into evidence a letter from the man's physician stating his condition. The doctor said his patient "has hypertension, prostate cancer, osteoarthritis, and dementia. He is incompetent to handle his own financial affairs due to his dementia," the letter states.

Robin and Patience Walgrave, both of 5603 11th Street, each face a charge of exploitation of the elderly. Additionally, Patience Walgrave faces a charge of violating probation on an original charge of purse snatching for which she is being held without bail at the Land O' Lakes jail. Her mother was released from jail early Friday after posting $10,000 bail.

A man who answered her phone and refused to give his name said she didn't want to comment. He did say, however, she's innocent and that authorities are on a "witch hunt."

Reporter Lisa A. Davis can be reached at (727) 815-1083.

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