Prairie State Wire

An Effingham County resident has pleaded guilty in federal court to charges related to the financial exploitation of an elderly victim, totaling more than $330,000.

Edward L. Stief, Jr., 42, admitted guilt to one count each of wire fraud, mail fraud, and unlawful monetary transactions involving criminally derived property. Sentencing is set for December 2 at the federal courthouse in Benton.

“The defendant posed as a trusted helper, offering lawn care services to gain the victim’s confidence, only to exploit his trust,” said U.S. Attorney Steven D. Weinhoeft. “He then deceived this vulnerable victim into leaving a nursing home with false promises of care, just to pocket more money. We will relentlessly pursue such financial predators to protect southern Illinois communities.”

Court documents state that Stief met the victim in May 2023 while providing lawn care and landscaping services. He soon convinced the victim to appoint him as Financial and Healthcare Power of Attorney through various misrepresentations.

"After a lifetime of hard work, our seniors deserve to feel safe and secure. Instead, criminals like this defendant shatter that trust, stealing not just their money but their sense of security,” said FBI Springfield Special Agent in Charge Christopher J.S. Johnson. “FBI Springfield and our partners will continue to hold those who commit elder fraud accountable for their callous and reprehensible actions."

Stief became a signatory on the victim’s bank accounts and persuaded him in August 2023 to cash out life insurance policies, depositing most proceeds into his own accounts. He also took possession of the victim’s gold coin collection along with gold necklaces and watches.

In October 2023, Stief convinced the victim to leave a nursing home facility under assurances of full-time care; however, according to authorities, he failed to provide adequate medical attention or support.

Wire and mail fraud convictions can result in up to 20 years’ imprisonment each; unlawful monetary transaction carries up to 10 years.

The investigation was conducted by the FBI Springfield Field Office and Effingham Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathleen Howard is prosecuting.

The National Elder Fraud Hotline provides support for victims over age 60 seeking assistance or resources regarding elder abuse crimes. The service operates Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. ET at (833) 372-8311 or (833) FRAUD-11.