Police Arrest Case Manager for Financial Exploitation

Published on September 05, 2025

West Palm Beach Police Arrest Case Manager for Financial Exploitation of Elderly Victim

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (September 5, 2025) – The West Palm Beach Police Department announces the arrest of Megan Elizabeth Bernat, 45, of Port St. Lucie, on felony charges of Exploitation of an Elderly or Disabled Adult over $50,000 following an investigation into financial crimes against a vulnerable victim.

Detectives began their investigation after receiving information about possible exploitation involving a resident at a senior living facility in West Palm Beach. Investigators determined that Bernat, who was employed as a case manager, used her position of trust to gain access to the victim and carry out financial exploitation.

Financial records show Bernat used the victim's bank account to cover personal expenses, including gas station purchases, groceries, Amazon purchases, car repair, medical bills, cell phone bills, Uber, rental car fees, pet bills, On-Star, and SunPass fees. The losses to the victim were found to exceed $68,600 over several years.

“Exploiting the most vulnerable members of our community will not be tolerated,” said Lt. William DeVito. “We will hold accountable anyone who abuses a position of trust to take advantage of others.”

Bernat was taken into custody without incident and charged with two felony counts of criminal use of personal identification information (817.568 10B, FSS), one count of exploitation of an elderly person or disabled adult (825.103 3A, FSS), and one count of money laundering transactions over $20,000 but less than $100,000 (896.101 5B, FSS).

The West Palm Beach Police Department encourages residents to remain vigilant for signs of financial exploitation and to report any concerns immediately. Anyone with additional information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers of Palm Beach County at 1-800-458-8477or visit the Crime Stoppers website.

Case no.: 20250011071

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Rachel Leitão

Public Information Officer

pdpio@wpb.org