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Two caregivers charged with exploitation

By TIMES WIRES
Published March 22, 2007

ODESSA

A pair of caregivers stole money from a bedridden woman under hospice care, according to a Pasco County Sheriff's Office report. Patrick Williams, 36, and Teresa Wheeler, 45, are accused of racking up $4,000 on the woman's credit card in the past year. Both Williams and Wheeler had been living with the woman, who is 66, in her Odessa home. Wheeler told deputies that she was permitted to use the card for groceries, but started buying clothing and CDs, and paying personal bills, the report said. The woman's son called police after seeing a receipt for clothes and tires. Deputies also found unauthorized prescription drugs in Wheeler's purse, the report said. Wheeler was charged with exploitation of the elderly and possessing a controlled substance without a prescription. She was being held at the county jail in lieu of $20,000 bail. Williams was charged with exploitation of the elderly and was at the jail in lieu of $10,000 bail.

NEW PORT RICHEY

Widower sues over wife's treatment

Audrey Ann Russell went to her doctor two years ago, complaining of shortness of breath and chest heaviness. Dr. Leonardo Vieira told the 45-year-old woman, a smoker for 30 years, that she had anxiety, according to a lawsuit filed in the 6th Judicial Circuit. Vieira prescribed antidepressants, the lawsuit said. Four months later, Russell died of sudden coronary artery disease. This week Russell's husband, Daniel C. Russell, filed a lawsuit against Vieira and Morton Plant Mease Primary Care Inc. in Trinity, alleging the doctor failed to properly diagnose and treat his wife. Vieira's attorney, Wil H. Florin, did not return a phone call Wednesday.

Here's happy news about the blues

Good news: The Rhythm & Bluesmasters show from 6 to 11 p.m. Friday at the Chasco Fiesta will be free after all. The original plans called for $10 tickets, but a group of blues lovers anonymously donated enough money to pay the performers, according to Chasco officials.

COUNTYWIDE

Verizon offers price break to snowbirds

Seasonal residents now can reserve Verizon home phone service and high-speed Internet service for up to six months for free, according to a news release. Previously there were setup charges and monthly fees for service reservations. The ordering fee and monthly recurring charge associated with keeping the DSL circuit in place also will be waived. Call toll-free at 1-800-483-4000 to request the temporary deferral.

[Last modified March 22, 2007, 00:09:50]