A troubling incident unfolded in a Florida hospital where a healthcare worker found herself on the wrong side of the law. Authorities have accused Bailey Slater, a 28-year-old patient care technician at HCA Florida Brandon Hospital, of committing a shocking breach of trust by stealing from a 94-year-old patient.
According to the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, Slater allegedly took the elderly patient’s wallet on January 22 and swiftly embarked on a spending spree, charging over $500 to the victim’s credit cards within the same day.
The investigation was bolstered by surveillance footage, which the sheriff’s office released, seemingly capturing Slater, masked and with a cart brimming with shopping bags, exiting a Target store.
Upon discovering the theft, hospital officials promptly notified law enforcement and collaborated closely with detectives to gather evidence and build a solid case against Slater.
Authorities have charged Slater with several offenses, including first-degree petit theft, two counts of unauthorized use of a credit card, and two counts of fraudulent use of personal information of an elderly person.
Following the issuance of a warrant for her arrest, Slater surrendered herself to the Orient Road Jail on Friday, marking a significant step in the legal proceedings against her.
Slater allegedly stole a 94-year-old patient’s wallet and used the victim’s credit cards to make more than $500 in unauthorized purchases. (Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office)
Slater faces multiple charges, including first-degree petit theft, two counts of unauthorized use of a credit card and two counts of fraudulent use of personal information of an elderly person.
Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister called the alleged theft “shameful.” (Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, File)
“Taking advantage of some of our most vulnerable community members while entrusted with their care is shameful and reprehensible,” Sheriff Chad Chronister said. “We will make sure justice is served, and we hope anyone considering this kind of behavior understands they will be held accountable.”
The investigation remains ongoing.
