LEON COUNTY, Fla. — A husband and wife have been arrested following an investigation into the alleged exploitation of an elderly victim involving hundreds of thousands of dollars, according to the Leon County Sheriff’s Office.
Karen Blackburn, 66, and James Blackburn, 68, were taken into custody on April 15, 2026, by the sheriff’s office Financial Crimes Unit.
The investigation began in January after the Florida Department of Children and Families reported suspected financial exploitation. Detectives reviewed bank records, tax documents, and other evidence covering a period from January 2022 through December 2025.
Authorities said the investigation revealed approximately $470,000 had been withdrawn from the victim’s Florida Retirement System account over a three-year span.
Detectives determined the Blackburns had access to the account, and that Karen Blackburn had volunteered to act as a caregiver for the victim, who was reported to be experiencing cognitive decline consistent with Alzheimer’s disease beginning in 2023.
Investigators said funds were transferred into a joint account associated with Karen Blackburn and were later used for personal expenses. Records showed spending on out-of-town travel, luxury hotel stays, casino gambling, and dining at upscale restaurants.
Both suspects were transported to the Leon County Detention Facility.
They are charged with exploitation of an elderly person, organized scheme to defraud, grand theft, and fraudulent use of personal identification information.