Hospice caretaker steals over $55,000 from elderly Hanford man, police say

Tuesday, November 18, 2025
HANFORD, Calif. (KFSN) -- Irais Angel should have helped her clients. But instead, Hanford Police say she helped herself to their money.

The 36-year-old is charged with forgery and elder abuse involving a South Valley man.

"She was a caretaker for the wife originally and continued to stay and take care of the gentleman after the wife's passing. And during that time, was able to write checks to herself that amounting to over $55,000," said Hanford Police Chief Stephanie Huddleston.

The chief said the years-long investigation involved detectives, diving into bank security footage and records.

But the case first developed from the suspicions of another caretaker.



Faith Lewright looked after the 81-year-old husband, Johnnie.

"Talked to him, went to the bank, found out there were six or seven more and that's when we call the cops," said Lewright.

The caretaker said this is one of the forged checks written by Angel to herself, for $15,000.

Johnnie, a decorated military veteran, is still mourning the loss of his wife and was made even more painful by the betrayal of trust and loss of his hard-earned savings.

"His eyes filled up with water, and I can tell that his feelings were hurt. Especially with the whole circumstance, she was his wife's hospice giver, and he trusted her with his wife's care. Just to find out, you know the next day she's writing herself checks," said Lewright.



Johnnie's credit union's policy does not allow the return of the stolen funds.

So, for now, Lewright continues to care for her client, who was hurt by someone else who was hired to help.

Police believe there are other victims out there. And is still an active investigation. Anyone with information on the suspect is encouraged to contact the Hanford Police.

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