Watch CBS News

Missing LA Woman Found In Maine Shack

LOS ANGELES (AP) — An elderly Los Angeles woman whose neighbors believed had died was instead found in a rundown shack in Maine, where according to authorities a family took her after gaining her confidence and selling her house.

The Los Angeles Times reported Sunday on the story of Sarah Cheiker, who disappeared in 2008 and was found in 2012 — alive but unwell.

Investigators came across a missing person report filed by Cheiker's neighbor, Jim Caccavo. He figured Cheiker had died.

Instead, according to authorities, a pair of twins and their godson swindled her into selling her home, then spent that money as they headed east.

According to court records, the three were placed on probation after pleading guilty to felony charges of endangering the welfare of a dependent person.

(© Copyright 2014 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

 

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.