Kathryn A. Shannon, 60, of Lowell, is facing a felony charge in Lake County after investigators allege she took thousands of dollars from a man suffering from dementia while working as his in-home caregiver.
According to court documents, the investigation began after a report of fraud tied to a residence in the 7500 block of Taft Street in Merrillville. A family member who held power of attorney contacted police after reviewing financial records and discovering numerous suspicious transactions.
The victim was described as suffering from dementia and had been hospitalized since late July, limiting his ability to manage finances or provide consent. During that time, Shannon had been hired as a home healthcare aide and had moved into the residence, where she allegedly had access to the victim’s checkbook and debit card.
Police were provided documentation showing 19 checks written between July 22, 2025, and August 16, 2025. Investigators noted many of the checks were made out to “cash,” with Shannon signing the back of them. The total value of those checks—excluding one confirmed legitimate payment—was determined to be approximately $5,250.
Several of the checks included handwritten memo notes such as “storage,” “pay,” “hospital bed,” “new blankets,” and other descriptions that were later questioned. One check for $150 labeled “storage” was noted as not corresponding to any known expense.
In addition to the checks, investigators reviewed bank records showing more than $3,000 in debit card purchases made between July 9 and August 18, 2025. It was reported that the purchases were not authorized and that the caregiver had possession of the victim’s debit card while he was hospitalized.
One transaction highlighted by investigators was a $52.55 charge at a restaurant in Hammond on August 13, 2025. According to statements provided to police, the victim was hospitalized at that time and could not have made the purchase.
During interviews, a family member told police the victim was unable to authorize financial transactions due to his dementia and limited ability to communicate. It was also reported that checks were typically written by authorized individuals and signed by the victim, but Shannon allegedly wrote checks herself and marked signatures inconsistent with the victim’s normal signature.
The family member further stated Shannon had access to the home, located the victim’s checkbook, and used the victim’s vehicle for personal purposes without permission.
Authorities allege the financial transactions occurred while the victim was hospitalized and unable to monitor or approve spending, and that Shannon had not been granted any authority to access the victim’s finances.
Lodged in the Lake County Jail on April 2,2026.
Charge filed February 27,2026:
• Fraud – Level 6 Felony
