BUCYRUS, OH (CRAWFORD COUNTY NOW)—In October of 2024, the Crawford County Sheriff’s Office received a complaint from the Crawford County Board of Developmental and Disabilities in reference to possible theft violations. It was alleged that alleged Carolyn J. Flynn Shireman, who is a P.O.A. (Power of Attorney) for a 52-year-old individual with Developmental Disabilities and was misspending his finances. Records indicate Carolyn has been his P.O.A. since May of 2019.

The victim’s case manager, also known as a Service and Support Administrator (SSA) from the CCBDD, attempted to obtain checking account information from Carolyn on multiple occasions and was only given a partial month from the victim’s account and was unable to fully investigate the complaint.

Detectives obtained a subpoena for the victim’s bank account between the dates of December 2019 through October 2024. Assistance was also requested from the Ohio Attorney General’s Office, Bureau of Criminal Investigation. BCI was able to assist the investigation by providing an analyst to help organize all the bank charges associated with the victim’s accounts.

The investigation revealed multiple fraudulent withdrawals along with purchases that were made by Shireman for her personal benefit. Purchases included jewelry, women’s clothing etc. It was also discovered that victim had closed both his 401k and life insurance accounts, in excess of $50,000.

On January 9, 2025, an interview was conducted with victim, in reference to the complaint. He was unaware of his 401k and his life insurance policy had been cashed out and confirmed he did not give Shireman permission for the purchases that appeared on his account.

On January 9, 2025, an interview was conducted with Shireman at her residence. After being informed of the complaint, she denied using the victim’s account for personal gain and said everything she spent money on, the victim knew about.

Shireman was placed under arrest after consulting with the Crawford County Prosecutor’s Office and was transported to the Crawford County Justice Center.

This case is still under investigation. Charges are expected to be filed today.