LITTLE ROCK – Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge today announced a lawsuit against Kristy Michelle Weems, of Fort Smith, for financially exploiting seniors in the Fort Smith area, a violation of the Arkansas Deceptive Trade Practices Act (ADTPA). Weems was employed as a home health aide to provide companionship, personal care, and other non-medical “home helper” services for seniors. The lawsuit alleges that Weems took advantage of her clients’ trust and inability to protect their property by making multiple unauthorized purchases and cash withdrawals with their debit cards and credit cards. Weems illegally obtained more than $13,400 before her deceptive activities were discovered and she was terminated by her employer.
“Ms. Weems abused the trust of seniors and their families, stealing thousands of dollars from Arkansans,” said Attorney General Rutledge. “As Attorney General, I have always protected our seniors and the State’s most vulnerable populations.”
Reports have also been filed with local law enforcement on behalf of the complainants.
Rutledge is now seeking restitution for consumers harmed by Weems, civil penalties up to $10,000 per violation, an injunction, and other costs and fees incurred by the State of Arkansas in resolving this matter.
For more tips to help avoid falling victim to bad actors, or to file a consumer-related claim with the Arkansas Attorney General’s Office, call (800) 482-8982, email [email protected] or visit ArkansasAG.gov.