Laredo Police Arrest One, Seek Two Others in $300,000 Elderly Financial Abuse Case

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Laredo Police have arrested one suspect and are searching for two others in an investigation into the alleged financial abuse of an elderly man involving more than $300,000. The suspects, members of the Montaner family, are accused of withdrawing funds from the victim's account without his knowledge or consent.

Why it matters

Financial exploitation of the elderly is a growing problem that can have devastating impacts on vulnerable seniors. This case highlights the need for increased protections and vigilance to prevent such crimes from occurring.

The details

According to police, in September 2025 an investigator was assigned a theft case after a complainant reported more than $300,000 was taken from his bank account. The complainant said he did not remember authorizing joint bank accounts or transferring funds to his neighbors, the Montaner family. Bank records and surveillance footage showed the complainant, Francisco Sabino Montaner, and Rosa Guerrero Balderas withdrawing $343,001.67 from the complainant's account, which was later deposited into a joint account under the complainant and Rafael Montaner's names. The funds were periodically withdrawn until the account was closed in May 2025.

• In September 2025, an investigator was assigned the theft case.
• In November 2025, Rafael Montaner told investigators the money was a gift from the complainant to his son.
• On February 5, 2026, Francisco Sabino Montaner was charged with financial abuse of an elderly person involving $150,000 or more.

What’s next

The judge will decide on Tuesday whether to allow Francisco Sabino Montaner to be released on bail.