Ephrata woman charged with theft, financial exploitation of elderly relative
Authorities say Jennifer Lynn Fernandez used a 79-year-old care-dependent relative’s bank account for Cash App transfers, gambling and personal purchases totaling $4,310; criminal charges were filed Sept. 24, 2026.
On March 6, 2026, Ephrata police responded to a report from the Lancaster County Office of Aging alleging financial exploitation of a 79-year-old care-dependent person. Search warrants for Cash App, Chime and BetMGM revealed transactions between Oct. 1, 2025 and Jan. 2, 2026 totaling $4,310; investigators say Fernandez, the victim’s granddaughter and power of attorney, admitted using the accounts for personal purchases and gambling. The Investigations Division filed felony charges for theft by unlawful taking and financial exploitation of an older adult on Sept. 24, 2026; a preliminary arraignment has not been scheduled. All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty.