CARMEL, IN — A trusted caretaker is behind bars today after allegedly exploiting a vulnerable 87-year-old Carmel resident, racking up nearly $29,000 in fraudulent charges while her client’s health declined.
Adula Valdivia, 49, of Indianapolis, is facing multiple felony charges after an investigation by the Carmel Police Department revealed a two-year-long scheme of financial abuse. Police say Valdivia used her position of trust to fund a lavish lifestyle at the expense of Alice Galloway, a senior who lived alone in a quiet Carmel cul-de-sac.
66 Fraudulent Charges and International Trips
According to investigators, Valdivia—who was employed through Visiting Angels to assist Galloway with daily chores and grocery shopping—made 66 unauthorized charges to Galloway’s credit cards between 2023 and 2025.
The stolen funds were allegedly used for:
- International & Domestic Travel: Airline tickets for Valdivia and her daughter to Mexico, Chicago, and Phoenix.
- Personal Debt: Direct payments toward Valdivia’s personal credit cards.
- Business Infusion: Funneling money into a failing company owned by Valdivia.
The Neighbor Who Raised the Red Flag
The scheme began to unravel thanks to the vigilance of a next-door neighbor, Amy Smith. In a neighborhood where families watch each other’s homes and children, Smith noticed a disturbing change in Galloway’s routine.
Galloway, who was known for walking to the mailbox every day, suddenly stopped. Smith also noted that Valdivia was frequently absent and actively discouraged neighbors from checking in on the elderly woman.
“The caretaker discouraged neighbors from checking in, even for small things such as dropping off flowers or helping in the yard,” Smith said. “It did seem really fishy… On one of the times that Alice had fallen, the fire department got a hold of me. It was when Adula was on one of her trips that was kind of the beginning to the end.”
Formal Charges Filed
Valdivia was booked into the Hamilton County Jail on Thursday night. She appeared in Hamilton Superior Court 1, where she was formally charged with several felonies, including:
- Theft
- Fraud
- Exploiting an Endangered Adult for Profit
Galloway’s family and neighbors are now speaking out to remind others to watch over the elderly in their communities. “It’s just so easy to take advantage of people,” Smith warned. “Don’t be afraid to raise a red flag.”
How to Protect Your Loved Ones
Local authorities recommend that families with elderly relatives using caretaker services regularly audit bank statements and maintain frequent, unannounced visits.
What do you think about this case? Should there be stricter background checks or more oversight for home-care agencies in Indiana? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
