Muscatine Nursing Home Administrator Charged with Stealing from Elderly Resident

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A 34-year-old nursing home administrator in Muscatine, Iowa has been charged with first-degree felony theft, dependent adult abuse by exploitation, ongoing criminal conduct, and tampering with records for allegedly stealing thousands of dollars from an elderly resident under her care. Chelsi Ingles has pleaded not guilty to the charges.

Why it matters

This case highlights the vulnerability of elderly residents in long-term care facilities and the need for stronger oversight and accountability measures to protect against financial exploitation. It also raises concerns about the quality of care at the Aspire of Muscatine nursing home, which has a low rating and multiple regulatory violations.

The details

Prosecutors say that in December 2023, while working as the administrator at Aspire of Muscatine, Ingles stole two checks from a female resident, cashing one for $8,500 and only depositing $3,500 into the resident's trust account. The second check, also for $8,500, was deposited into an account Ingles set up in her and the resident's name, before being transferred to a joint account with her husband. Aspire executives discovered the thefts in January 2024 and asked Ingles to return the money, but she only returned a portion and provided questionable documentation.

• In December 2023, Ingles allegedly stole two checks from a female resident at the Aspire of Muscatine nursing home.
• In January 2024, Aspire executives learned of the thefts and asked Ingles to return the money.

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on whether or not to allow Chelsi Ingles out on bail.