PINEHURST, N.C. — Two Pinehurst residents have been arrested in connection with an alleged fraud scheme targeting an elderly person in their care, involving tens of thousands of dollars in forged checks and diverted annuity payments.
According to Pinehurst Police Chief Glen T. Webb II, the investigation began on Oct. 23, 2025, after the victim’s financial institution reported suspicious activity. Detectives determined that Douglas and Janet Berzack allegedly forged at least ten checks totaling around $50,000 and unlawfully diverted annuity payments belonging to the elderly victim for whom they provided in-home care.
Chief Webb praised his team, stating, “This case highlights the tireless and meticulous work our detectives do every day to investigate and solve complex financial crimes, particularly those involving vulnerable victims.”
Both Douglas and Janet Berzack face multiple charges, including:
Larceny of chose in action
Forgery of instrument
Uttering forged instrument
Obtaining property by false pretense
Identity theft
Exploitation of an older or disabled adult
The couple is currently being held at the Moore County Detention Center, with secured bonds of $125,000 for Douglas Berzack and $425,000 for Janet Berzack. Authorities say the investigation is ongoing and additional charges are possible.
