Missing Navy Vet and Grandmother Feared Scammed

Family suspects 72-year-old Margaret Hanley may have fallen victim to a scam before disappearing

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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Margaret Hanley, a 72-year-old Navy veteran and grandmother, has been missing since February 8th. Her son Jomo Thompson says his mother has some short-term memory loss, and the family suspects she may have been scammed after noticing unusual bank activity. Hanley's last known location was in Georgia, where she was driving her 2001 Toyota RAV4 with the license plate ESMF23.

Why it matters

Elderly individuals with memory issues can be particularly vulnerable to scams and exploitation. This case highlights the importance of protecting seniors and investigating potential financial crimes when a vulnerable person goes missing.

The details

According to reports, Hanley's family last spoke with her on February 8th. They soon noticed unusual bank activity and became concerned that she may have fallen victim to a scam. Hanley's vehicle was spotted in Georgia, but her current whereabouts remain unknown. The Jacksonville, Florida Sheriff's Office is investigating the case.

  • Margaret Hanley was last seen on February 8, 2026.
  • Her family noticed unusual bank activity shortly after her disappearance.

The players

Margaret Hanley

A 72-year-old Navy veteran and grandmother who has been missing since February 8th.

Jomo Thompson

The son of Margaret Hanley, who says his mother has some short-term memory loss.

Jacksonville, Florida Sheriff's Office

The law enforcement agency investigating Hanley's disappearance.

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What they’re saying

“Margaret Hanley, 72, a Navy veteran and beloved grandmother, has been missing since Monday, Febuary 8.”

— Crime Online Staff (CrimeOnline.com)

“Son Jomo Thompson says his mother has some short-term memory loss. After noting unusual bank activity, the family suspects Margaret may have been scammed.”

— Crime Online Staff (CrimeOnline.com)

What’s next

The Jacksonville, Florida Sheriff's Office is continuing to investigate Margaret Hanley's disappearance and the potential scam that may have led to her going missing.

The takeaway

This case underscores the vulnerability of elderly individuals, especially those with memory issues, to financial exploitation and the importance of vigilance in protecting seniors from scams.