Fall River woman held on bail after being accused of squatting in home under guise of being a “caretaker”, locking elderly woman out of her home

A Fall River woman is facing several charges after police say she took advantage of an elderly woman.

According to police, last week, the Rutland, MA Police Department arrested 38-year-old Maria Martin, charging her with Larceny from a Building, Vandalizing Property, and Permitting Abuse on an Elder/Disabled Person.

Martin is alleged to have fraudulently established residence with an elderly Rutland resident, under the guise of being a “caretaker.” After some time, that resident left the home for extended care at a medical facility.

When the resident returned home from the medical facility, she found that her locks had been changed, and that Martin and her boyfriend had been squatting in her home. Additionally, she came home to find that her home was in squalor, littered with drug paraphernalia, that several of her possessions had been stolen, and that parts of her house were destroyed. Investigating officers also found evidence suggesting that Martin had been operating an illicit erotic massage service out of the residence.

Martin was arrested and was arraigned at the East Brookfield District Court and is currently being held on $5000 bail at the Hampden County Sheriff’s Office.

Rutland PD officers have been coordinating with elder services, the victim’s family, and the Victim/Witness advocate at the court to ensure that this victim is protected and receives the services she needs.

If you suspect that an elderly person is being taken advantage of, contact your local police department.