Mary Newland, identified as the victim in the court document dated April 14, told News Center 7's Kate Bartley she worked with a friend to set up life insurance and annuities. Newland claims that friend -- Hawkey -- drained her bank account.
Newland's granddaughter, Shannon Embs, said Hawkey "gained [Newland's] trust and told her she was going to do all of her bills for her online."
GOT A TIP? Call our 24-hour line, 937-259-2237, or sent it to newsdesk@cmgohio.com
According to the granddaughter, "The family has had to empty out our bank accounts to pay for [Newland’s] bills."
Hawkey counters the allegations and said she expects the charge will be dropped.
She said Newland called her, "begging me ... to take her to get her food and to get her prescriptions."
Hawkey said she may have saved Newland's life by responding to her requests for help.
"Mary asked me to help her and I did," Hawkey said. "And now they're accusing me of that. It's a flat-out lie."
The issue is headed to Common Pleas court next week, according to court calendars.
Click here to download our free mobile apps for breaking news, news updates and weather.
About the Author