Baton Rouge Caregiver Arrested for Theft from Elderly Laplace Couple

Authorities say the suspect forged checks and withdrew cash from the victims' account without authorization.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 8:59pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a crumpled, forged check against a pitch-black background, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash, conceptually representing the financial crime at the center of this story.A harsh flash photograph of a forged check conceptually illustrates the financial exploitation of an elderly couple by their caregiver.Laplace Today

A 34-year-old Baton Rouge woman has been arrested and charged with 12 counts each of exploitation of the infirm, forgery, bank fraud, and identity theft after allegedly stealing over $3,250 from an elderly couple she was hired to care for in Laplace, Louisiana.

Why it matters

Elder fraud and abuse is a growing concern nationwide as the senior population increases, with vulnerable individuals often targeted by those entrusted to provide care. This case highlights the importance of families taking precautions when hiring in-home caregivers for elderly relatives.

The details

According to investigators, Demyra Willis was hired in April 2024 by the victims' son to assist his 82-year-old father in caring for his ailing wife. Between April 15 and May 6, 2024, Willis allegedly forged and cashed checks made payable to herself and withdrew cash from the victim's account without authorization, totaling $3,250.

  • On April 7, 2026, Demyra Willis was arrested and booked on the charges.
  • The alleged thefts occurred between April 15 and May 6, 2024.

The players

Demyra Willis

A 34-year-old Baton Rouge woman who was hired as an in-home caregiver for an elderly couple in Laplace.

St. John the Baptist Parish Sheriff's Office

The law enforcement agency that investigated the case and made the arrest.

Sheriff Mike Tregre

The sheriff of St. John the Baptist Parish who urged families to take precautions when hiring in-home caregivers for elderly relatives.

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What they’re saying

“Elder fraud is a growing concern nationwide as the senior population increases, with more cases targeting vulnerable individuals.”

— Sheriff Mike Tregre, Sheriff of St. John the Baptist Parish

What’s next

Willis is being held in the parish jail in Laplace on an $80,169 bond. The case is ongoing as authorities continue to investigate.

The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of families thoroughly vetting and monitoring in-home caregivers for elderly relatives to prevent financial exploitation and abuse. Proactive measures such as securing mail, limiting accessible cash, and regularly reviewing bank statements can help protect vulnerable seniors.