Two Pinehurst residents have been arrested and charged in connection with an alleged fraud scheme that police say targeted an elderly person in their care and involved tens of thousands of dollars in forged checks and diverted payments.
According to Pinehurst Chief of Police Glen T. Webb II, the charges stem from a fraud investigation initiated by detectives with the Pinehurst Police Department on Oct. 23, 2025.
The suspicious activity was initially reported to Pinehurst Police by the victim’s financial institution. Through the investigation, detectives developed probable cause to believe the Berzacks allegedly forged at least ten checks totaling approximately $50,000 and unlawfully diverted annuity payments belonging to an elderly victim for whom they were providing in-home care.
“This case highlights the tireless and meticulous work our detectives do every day to investigate and solve complex financial crimes, particularly those involving vulnerable victims,” said Police Chief Webb in a statement to Sandhills Sentinel. “Their dedication and attention to detail were critical in bringing this case forward.”
Both Douglas and Janet Berzack are facing multiple counts each of larceny of chose in action, forgery of instrument, uttering forged instrument, obtaining property by false pretense, identity theft, and exploitation of an older adult or disabled adult.
Janet Berzack and Douglas Berzack are currently being held at the Moore County Detention Center under secured bonds of $425,000 and $125,000, respectively.
Chief Webb says this remains an active and ongoing investigation, and additional charges are possible.
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Photos via Moore County Detention Center. Defendants facing criminal charges are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
