Alleged Theft from Elderly Victims Across Central Massachusetts
BOSTON — A Leominster woman faces multiple felony charges for allegedly stealing thousands of dollars from elderly residents while working at long-term care and health facilities in Worcester and Middlesex Counties.
Regina Henaku, 33, was indicted March 20 by a Statewide Grand Jury following an investigation led by the Massachusetts Attorney General’s Office. Authorities allege Henaku posed as a certified caregiver using stolen professional identities to gain employment and access to victims.
Between August and November 2024, Henaku allegedly used stolen credit and debit cards from at least 16 elderly individuals—most over the age of 60 and some enrolled in MassHealth. Officials say she successfully withdrew or spent approximately $28,000 using the financial information of 11 victims and attempted to defraud the remaining five.
Use of Stolen Credentials to Access Elder Care Facilities
Henaku allegedly assumed the identities of both a relative and a former colleague to secure positions in five separate care facilities. According to the indictment, she used these fraudulent credentials to pose as a licensed caregiver, allowing her to move freely within environments where elderly residents were especially vulnerable.
The facilities included a long-term care center in Framingham, a senior living complex in Bedford, and assisted living residences in Hudson and Leominster. Officials say the suspect typically remained at each job for only a few weeks before moving on.
During these short stints, Henaku allegedly took advantage of her role to steal bank cards and personal information from elderly patients. In some cases, she used the cards to make purchases or withdraw cash without the victims’ knowledge.
Multiple Felony Charges Filed
The Statewide Grand Jury returned indictments on several charges: nine counts of Larceny Over $250 from an Elder or Disabled Person, Credit Card Fraud, Attempted Larceny Over $250 from an Elder or Disabled Person, Identity Fraud, and Misleading the Police/Obstruction of Justice.
Because the alleged victims were elderly or disabled, each charge carries enhanced penalties under Massachusetts law. Additionally, the charges reflect repeated patterns of behavior across multiple institutions.
Authorities emphasized that all charges are allegations, and Henaku is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
Obstruction Allegation During Police Investigation
While under investigation by a local police department, Henaku allegedly attempted to mislead authorities by again using her relative’s identity. According to the Attorney General’s Office, she falsely identified herself during questioning, which led to an additional charge of obstruction of justice.
Meanwhile, the AGO continues to investigate whether more individuals or institutions may have been affected. The case highlights ongoing challenges in verifying caregiver credentials, particularly in facilities serving elderly populations.
Ongoing Risk in Senior Care Settings
The case underscores the vulnerability of older adults living in long-term and assisted living facilities. Because these institutions rely heavily on background checks and professional references, the use of stolen credentials poses a significant threat to resident safety.
Additionally, the alleged misuse of MassHealth data and benefits raises concerns about privacy and oversight within the state’s elder care system. Officials did not disclose whether additional systemic safeguards will be recommended or implemented as a result of this case.
State Response and Next Steps
The Attorney General’s Office has not released a trial date. However, state prosecutors are expected to pursue the case in the coming months. The charges suggest a coordinated pattern of fraud carried out over a three-month period across multiple institutions.
Because the alleged crimes involved deceptive practices and repeated identity misuse, the case may serve as a precedent for how Massachusetts handles caregiver fraud involving vulnerable populations.
In the meantime, residents and facility administrators across the state are urged to remain vigilant, particularly when hiring staff through third-party agencies or short-term contracts.
Xylo News 