Home Health Aide from Pennsville Arrested for Stealing $11,000 from Elderly Client

Pilesgrove, N.J. – Troopers from Woodstown Station arrested self-employed home healthcare aide Patricia Polhamus, 55, of Pennsville, for thefts of cash in excess of $11,000 from an elderly client.

The investigation began on August 24 when the victim discovered cash missing from envelopes that he kept inside a drawer in his living room. When investigating troopers responded to the residence, they found no signs of burglary. The victim indicated that he employed multiple healthcare aides that had access to his house.

Through various investigative means, detectives were able to identify Patricia Polhamus as the suspect. On September 8, troopers obtained search warrants for both her residence and vehicle and seized approximately $2,500 and over100 pharmaceutical pills that were not prescribed to her.

She was arrested that same day at Woodstown Station and charged with theft, criminal attempt, and possession of prescription legend drugs. She was processed and released pending a future court date.

Anyone who has employed Patricia Polhamus and suspects that they are the victim of a theft is asked to contact Detective Charles Tortella at (856) 769-0779.

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