Staff report

GAINESVILLE, Fla. – Kendra Latosha Ford, 44, has been charged with six counts of exploiting an elderly person after allegedly stealing over $1,400 from a man who employeed her as a caregiver.

At the time of the alleged theft, Ford had been assigned full-time to the victim for about two months; her duties included driving him to the store and shopping for him while he waited in the car. She was also authorized to drive his car to the store and shop with his debit card occasionally.

Between June 14 and June 26, 2024, Ford used the victim’s debit card to buy groceries on his behalf, but she also allegedly used the debit card to make six ATM withdrawals totaling over $1,200. She also allegedly purchased food, charcoal, and a canopy tent for herself, totaling $151.77.

The victim noticed the withdrawals when he reviewed his bank statements and notified Ford’s employer. The employer reported that Ford denied stealing any money from the victim, but a Gainesville Police Department Detective reported that Ford was seen on surveillance video conducting ATM withdrawals at multiple locations and purchasing items for herself at Walmart.

Ford has been charged with six counts of exploitation of the elderly. She has five misdemeanor convictions (one violent), and Judge Susan Miller-Jones set bail at $150,000.

Articles about arrests are based on reports from law enforcement agencies. The charges listed are taken from the arrest report and/or court records and are only accusations. All suspects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.