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A few months ago, I needed help with house cleaning. The young man did a good job; however, he also stole 2 designer handbags and a very expensive pant suit


I didn't discover that they were gone until weeks later, so I felt that I could not report it to the agency.


I have put away a lot of my good things because I know I will need help again


But that is no way to live. In addition to my husband's dementia and my declining health, I now have to worry about having my things stolen.


Any advise?

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Install cameras, & locks on bedroom doors. Get mail before caregiver does. No personal papers around like bank statements. & it helps to keep looking for non thief ! Hugs 🤗
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This might be extreme, but have you thought of putting a deadbolt or an exterior door lock/handle on your bedroom door?

We are going to house our barky dogs in our bedroom, and a cat that loves to escape. If I suspect things have been moved or touched, we’ll install nanny cams (that record).

I’ll also take precaution to hide my jewelry, just in case, but it’s such a pain. Your belongings should be safe in your own home, but these are strangers that we’re opening our doors to.
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My friend had an issue with a caregiver stealing and the agency didn't want to hear it. She contacted the prosecutor's office and they told he the theft was too small to bother with. She had many other smaller items go missing over the years but this was the one time she had actual proof of theft.

Don't allow caregivers to enter with large bags or purses. Nanny-cam the heck out of your house and don't leave real valuables out in plain sight.
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Cameras
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Did you hire him through an agency? Not that agency-provided workers are perfect, but the agencies have already performed criminal background checks, and are ultimately legally responsible for any theft that occurs. Yes, it is more expensive, but look what it cost you to hire this last guy.

Usually those types of theft are crimes of opportunity. They aren't discovered right away and can't be proven, so prevention is the only strategy. For one thing I would pay for Identity Theft protection, something like LifeLock (there are others). Then I would choose a small room (might need to be your bedroom) that you can lock (like with a deadbolt and key) and keep all valuables in there, including blank check books, jewelry, etc. and keep that room locked, when a service person comes into your house. This includes putting your purse, tablet, laptop, anything that can be easily swiped. And -- any prescription pain medications! These should *never* be kept in the bathroom, but in a locked room or small fireproof house safe.

Yes, you should pay for securing your small valuables and identity. The cost of a future theft will be far greater.
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