A 62-year-old Whitchurch-Stouffville man has been charged after Durham Regional Police alleged that more than $900,000 was taken from a 95-year-old Whitby man through misuse of a power of attorney.

Police said the accused had power of attorney over the victim and allegedly transferred more than $900,000 from the victim’s funds into his own personal bank account. Investigators allege the transfers were made without the victim’s knowledge or consent.

The man’s name has not been released by police in order to protect the identity of the victim. He has been charged with theft by person holding power of attorney, theft over $5,000, and possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000.

A power of attorney is a legal document that allows one or more people to manage money, property, banking, investments, real estate transactions, and other financial affairs on another person’s behalf. It is often used when a person is aging, ill, or otherwise unable to manage their own affairs.

Durham police said the case comes as their Older Adult Support and Investigative Services Unit is actively investigating a growing number of concerns involving older adults. Police urged seniors and families to be cautious when planning or changing a power of attorney arrangement.

Police advised older adults to plan ahead, seek advice from a qualified lawyer, avoid handing over personal documents unnecessarily, and resist pressure to appoint someone as power of attorney or alter an existing will. They also encouraged families to review financial accounts for unusual activity and ensure legal wishes are clearly documented.

The charges have not been proven in court.

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Originally published on Canadian Fraud News.