Huron Man Sentenced in Embezzlement Case 

PIERRE, S.D.-   A Huron man was sentenced today to serve 4 years in prison for stealing money from his elderly aunt. Bradley Dean Dooley, 50, pled guilty in June to one count of Embezzlement. Circuit Court Judge David R. Gienapp stated that society needs to beware of the consequences of betraying and violating trust. Dooley has already paid restitution of three hundred and fifty thousand dollars as part of his plea agreement.    

“We have no tolerance for people who victimize vulnerable members of our society,” Attorney General Long said.  “We encourage anyone who is aware of such exploitation to contact law enforcement.”

Dooley’s aunt, Zelpha Faughender, also of Huron, made Dooley her Power of Attorney for financial affairs.  Dooley used the power of attorney to write checks on Faughender’s account without her authorization. “Families should openly discuss financial arrangements for their elderly relatives,” Long said.  “It may also be helpful to seek advice from financial professionals to avoid financial exploitation.”

The case was investigated and prosecuted by the South Dakota Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, with assistance from Beadle County law enforcement. Anyone who has concerns about exploitation or abuse of elders may contact local law enforcement or the South Dakota Medicaid Fraud Control Unit in Pierre by phone at (605) 773-4102, or by email, medicaidfraud@state.sd.us.

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