Prosecutors say the 67-year-old managed the couple’s finances and used their bank accounts for personal expenses.
Ephrata, Pa. – A Clay Township man charged with defrauding an elderly couple of more than $27,000 while managing their finances has waived his preliminary hearing, allowing the case to proceed to Lancaster County Court, authorities said.
Key Points
- Howard Stanley Smith Jr., 67, is accused of making unauthorized withdrawals and purchases from a couple’s bank account between April and December 2024.
- The victims, ages 76 and 85, were unable to communicate with investigators due to advanced age and medical conditions.
- Smith faces felony charges of financial exploitation of an older adult and accessing an unauthorized device.
Alleged financial abuse
According to Ephrata Borough Police, Smith was entrusted with overseeing the finances of two elderly Ephrata residents — a 76-year-old man living in a nursing home and his 85-year-old wife, who suffers from early-onset dementia…