Attorney General Tim Griffin announced two convictions and one arrest recently made by his office’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit (MFCU) involving the exploitation of vulnerable individuals.
On January 22, Amanda Patton, 46, of Maynard, was arrested and charged with exploitation of a vulnerable person, a Class B felony. Investigators allege Patton exploited her aunt, who was living in a nursing home, by using the victim’s personal funds for her own benefit, including the purchase of multiple vehicles and a recreational vehicle totaling more than $185,000.
Also on January 22, David Pelto, 44, and Roi Pelto, 42, of Fayetteville, entered no-contest pleas to one count each of exploitation of a vulnerable person, a Class C felony. Authorities say the two allegedly exploited David Pelto’s uncle after placing him in a nursing home, removing his personal belongings, and transferring the victim’s personal funds for their own use. Both defendants were sentenced to three years of probation, a $1,000 fine plus court costs, and $500 in restitution.
“My office remains unwavering in our mission to protect the vulnerable and hold bad actors accountable for Medicaid fraud,” Griffin said. He also thanked investigators, prosecutors, and local law enforcement agencies for their assistance in the cases.
The Arkansas MFCU receives federal and state funding through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and Arkansas General Revenue to support investigations and prosecutions of Medicaid fraud and patient abuse.
Officials say these cases highlight the importance of protecting vulnerable Arkansans and ensuring accountability for financial exploitation.
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