” A gold watch chain, necklaces and six tooth fillings are among the more than $25,000-worth of jewelry and personal items police say Howard J. Carey stole from residents of the Albemarle County assisted living facility where he used to work.
Carey, 24, turned himself in to county police Wednesday evening on 20 felony charges related to a 14-week string of thefts from residents of Westminster Canterbury of the Blue Ridge, authorities said.
Authorities charged Carey, of Charlottesville, with 10 felony counts of breaking and entering and 10 felony counts of grand larceny, according to court records. A Westminster spokeswoman on Thursday could not say how long Carey worked at the facility on Pantops Mountain Road or whether his position allowed him access to residents’ rooms.
The facility is licensed through the state department of social services and prospective employees submit to background checks as part of the application process, she said. About 380 seniors live in apartments and cottages on Westminster’s 56-acre campus.
“We are deeply disappointed that an associate would commit such acts, but are relieved that this case is nearing closure,” stated Gary Selmeczi, president and CEO of Westminster Canterbury of the Blue Ridge. “We regret that our community has suffered both the criminal and emotional impacts of these thefts and appreciate the dedication and close working relationship with the Albemarle County Police department in resolving this matter.”
Investigators have recovered some of the stolen items, said police spokeswoman Carter Johnson. Police are asking anyone who may have been a victim of theft at the facility to call 972-4038.
Carey declined to comment when reached by phone Thursday. Carey’s family posted his $15,000 bond, according to his attorney, Scott Goodman.”