A 31-year-old Felton man was arrested in connection with the theft of more than $4,000 from his elderly grandmother’s bank account, according to a statement released by the Lewes Police Department. Authorities allege that Zachary R. Thacker, who held power of attorney for the 76-year-old infirm resident, withdrew funds without her consent and used the money for personal purposes.
According to police, the investigation began on January 17, 2025, when officers were contacted by the Excel Care Senior Housing Development on Oceanview Boulevard regarding a possible theft. Staff members reported concerns after discovering that the resident was months behind in her nursing home payments and had only two cents remaining in her bank account, despite receiving regular Social Security deposits. Unable to account for the missing funds an investigation was launched.
During the following weeks, police obtained subpoenas for legal and bank records to trace the missing money. Through this process, investigators determined that withdrawals had been made from the victim’s account according to police. Authorities allege that Thacker, the victim’s grandson, who had access to the funds as power of attorney, made unauthorized transactions totaling more than $4,000.
Warrants were issued for Thacker’s arrest, charging him with committing a crime against a vulnerable adult, a Class E felony, and felony theft of over $1,500 from a victim over the age of 62, a Class F felony.
On February 5, members of The Delaware State Police Governor’s Task Force located Thacker at his residence and took him into custody. He was subsequently transported to the Lewes Police Department, where he was formally charged.
Following his arrest, Thacker was released on his own recognizance under court-ordered conditions. Authorities confirmed that he is subject to restrictions, including a no-contact order with the victim.