Caretaker arrested in elderly woman's death

A caretaker was arrested today in the 2008 death of an elderly woman who had elevated levels of prescription drugs in her system.

Jana Porter Mallory, 44, faces charges of second-degree murder and aggravated abuse of an elderly or disabled adult.

Over a four-month period, Mallory administered elevated levels of prescription drugs while stealing more than $50,000 from Peggy Albury Mehrman, police spokeswoman Laura McElroy said. Mallory also pawned Mehrman's jewelry.

"As the amount of money in the bank account decreased, the amount of drugs increased," McElroy said.

On March 28, 2008, Mallory called 911 and reported that Mehrman, 78, was dead. That same day, police say, Mehrman's daughter questioned where her mother's prescription medication and checks had gone.

Investigators tried to determine whether Mehrman had been exploited, and soon a homicide investigation began.

Toxicology tests showed Mehrman had painkillers and antidepressants in her system at 10 times the prescribed level.

Police said Mehrman was Mallory's neighbor on Adelia Avenue and moved in with Mallory because her own home was being renovated. Mallory began caring for Mehrman in November 2007. Mallory isn't a licensed medical care provider; she just claimed to be trying to help.

Mehrman had a debilitating muscular disease, used a wheelchair and needed constant care. Her daughter has multiple sclerosis and doesn't live in Tampa.

Mallory cooperated with police after Mehrman's death, but "her story didn't add up," McElroy said.

Mallory told police today that she administered drugs to Mehrman but didn't give any explanation for the elevated drug levels or missing money, McElroy said.

Asked why Mallory faces a second-degree murder charge, McElroy said police worked closely with the state attorney's office in determining the appropriate charges.

If convicted, Mallory could face life behind bars.

In January 2004, Mallory pleaded guilty to soliciting another to commit prostitution. An admitted crack user, she offered to perform a sexual act in exchange for $23 to pay rent, a police report states. She was sentenced to 10 days in jail, with credit for time served.

In June 2005, she pleaded guilty to fraudulent use of personal information and giving a false name to law enforcement. Adjudication was withheld. She also pleaded guilty to unlawful display of a license and not having a valid driver's license. She was sentenced to 18 months of probation.