Palmetto State News

South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson announced the arrest of Jennifer Helen Wilks, 43, of Seneca, S.C., for Exploitation of a Vulnerable Adult and Financial Transactions Card Fraud. According to Wilson, Wilks stands accused of making unauthorized use of a vulnerable adult's funds and assets, using the victim's debit card for personal purchases totaling over $500 in a six-month period. The victim, identified as a vulnerable adult under South Carolina law, was receiving care at healthcare facilities during the period in question.

Wilson emphasized that the case will be prosecuted by the Attorney General's Office and highlighted the serious nature of the charges. He stated, "Exploitation of a Vulnerable Adult is a felony and, upon conviction, has a penalty of up to five years in prison, a fine of up to $5,000, or both." Similarly, Financial Transactions Card Fraud, exceeding $500 in a six-month period, carries a felony charge with penalties including up to five years in prison, a fine ranging from $3,000 to $5,000, or both.

The arrest came as a result of a joint investigation by the Medicaid Fraud Control Unit and the Oconee County Sheriff’s Office. Wilson's office explained that the SCMFCU has jurisdiction over cases involving Medicaid provider fraud, abuse of Medicaid beneficiaries, and the mistreatment of individuals in assisted living facilities or nursing homes.

Wilson reminded the public that all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. The SCMFCU, which plays a crucial role in combating such crimes, receives funding from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services as well as from the state of South Carolina to support its efforts in addressing Medicaid fraud and the abuse of vulnerable individuals.