CONCORD, N.H. (WGME) — A New Hampshire man has pleaded guilty to stealing nearly a quarter-million dollars in disability benefits from an elderly veteran who was unable to manage his own finances.
The U.S. Department of Justice said 49-year-old Donald Estes of Bath pleaded guilty Monday to one count of bank fraud. The victim, an elderly disabled veteran, lived in a nursing home until his death and was dependent on others to handle his financial affairs.
According to prosecutors, the Department of Veterans Affairs deposited monthly disability benefits into the veteran’s bank account. The veteran’s mother initially served as his legal guardian, but after her death, the nursing home contacted Estes to ask if he would assume that role.
Officials said Estes never applied to become the veteran’s legal guardian. Instead, he had the veteran sign an agreement allowing Estes access to the bank account.
Between August 2020 and December 2023, authorities said Estes stole approximately $225,200 from the account. Investigators said he used the funds for personal expenses or transferred the money into other accounts under his control.
Estes is scheduled to be sentenced in May. He faces up to 30 years in federal prison and a fine of up to $1 million.
