A former employee of The Greens at Pinehurst was arrested after an investigation into alleged financial exploitation of an elderly resident, according to the Pinehurst Police Department.
Michael Bittle, 49, of Wagram, was accused of obtaining the resident’s debit card and using it to make multiple unauthorized purchases.
The investigation began in September after police received a report of unauthorized transactions involving the resident’s bank account.
Detectives interviewed witnesses and reviewed financial records and surveillance footage. Investigators also used automated license plate reader technology to help link Bittle’s vehicle to the location of a fraudulent transaction, police said.
On Sept. 18, detectives obtained arrest warrants charging Bittle with identity theft, obtaining property by false pretenses, exploitation of an older adult, financial transaction card theft, and financial transaction card fraud.
Bittle was taken into custody Oct. 20 and held without bond. His initial court appearance was scheduled for Oct. 21 in Moore County District Court.
“These arrests are the result of determined investigative work by our detectives, who followed financial records, surveillance footage and other evidence to identify the suspects,” Pinehurst Police Chief Glen Webb said. “These cases don’t always come together quickly, but our officers remain committed to following every lead and seeking justice for the residents who have been victimized.”
A press release from the Pinehurst Police Department stressed the department’s “commitment to pursuing financial crimes and protecting residents from fraud and exploitation.”
All charges are allegations, and Bittle is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
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Via Pinehurst Police Department.
