York County, October 8, 2025
News Summary
Kayla Strohm, a resident of York County, has pleaded guilty to multiple charges, including financial exploitation and identity theft, after stealing $50,000 from her 90-year-old grandmother. The plea agreement resulted in the dismissal of 12 additional felony counts. Investigations revealed extensive fraudulent activities, leading to her arrest and subsequent custody awaiting sentencing.
York County
Kayla Strohm, a 42-year-old woman from York County, pleaded guilty to stealing $50,000 from her 90-year-old grandmother, admitting to charges of financial exploitation of an older adult, identity theft, and theft. Strohm’s plea was heard in the York County Court of Common Pleas by Judge Amber Kraft, which allows her time for a pre-sentence investigation prior to her scheduled sentencing hearing on January 5, 2026.
In addition to the felony counts to which she pleaded guilty, a total of 12 additional felonies were dismissed as part of her open plea agreement. The charges against Strohm arose from an investigation initiated by the Newberry Township Police in May, following a report filed by the victim’s son, who noticed unauthorized transactions on his mother’s accounts. Allegations against Strohm include unauthorized use of her grandmother’s credit card, activating at least two new credit cards in her grandmother’s name, and forging checks among other fraudulent activities.
Details of the Investigation
The extensive investigation revealed that Strohm engaged in over $15,000 of unauthorized credit card transactions and more than $17,000 in unauthorized debits from the victim’s bank account. Law enforcement uncovered almost 60 forged checks that totaled around $12,000 and discovered over $10,000 withdrawn from a fraudulent online investment account opened in her grandmother’s name. The investigation also involved serving 11 search warrants to gather sufficient evidence against Strohm. Security camera footage obtained during the investigation showed Strohm using her grandmother’s credit card and personal checks at various retail locations, including Walmart.
Victim Background
The victim, who lived with Strohm, had previously demonstrated financial responsibility, with family members describing her as frugal and reliable in managing her money. The recent allegations of exploitation came as a shock given her history of prudent financial management.
Currently, Strohm remains in custody at the York County Prison as she awaits her sentencing. The case has drawn significant attention as it highlights the issue of financial exploitation of vulnerable elderly individuals, stressing the need for vigilance among family members and caretakers.
Conclusion
This case serves as a reminder of the potential for elder abuse within families and the importance of monitoring financial activities for those who may be vulnerable. As Strohm awaits her sentencing, the community continues to reflect on the implications of such actions against the elderly.
FAQs
What charges did Kayla Strohm plead guilty to?
Kayla Strohm pleaded guilty to charges related to stealing $50,000 from her 90-year-old grandmother, including felony counts of financial exploitation of an older adult, identity theft, and theft.
When is Kayla Strohm’s sentencing hearing scheduled?
Strohm’s sentencing hearing is scheduled for January 5, 2026, allowing time for a pre-sentence investigation.
What was the amount stolen from the elderly relative?
Strohm was charged with stealing $50,000 from her 90-year-old grandmother over a span of three years.
How did the investigation into Kayla Strohm start?
The investigation was triggered by a report from the victim’s son, who noticed unauthorized transactions on his mother’s accounts.
Key Features of the Article
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Defendant | Kayla Strohm, 42 years old |
| Victim | 90-year-old grandmother |
| Amount Stolen | $50,000 over three years |
| Charges | Financial exploitation of an older adult, identity theft, and theft |
| Sentencing Date | January 5, 2026 |
| Investigation Start | Triggered by the victim’s son’s report |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- York Dispatch
- Google Search: Financial exploitation of the elderly
- York Daily Record
- Wikipedia: Elder abuse
- Fox43
- Encyclopedia Britannica: elderly financial abuse
- Evening Sun
- Google News: elder financial exploitation news
Author: STAFF HERE ROCK HILL
The ROCK HILL STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERERockHill.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Rock Hill, York County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Come-See-Me Festival, Rock Hill Arts Festival, and motorsport events at the Rock Hill Velodrome. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Rock Hill Chamber of Commerce and the Culture & Heritage Museums, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and technology that power the local economy such as 3D Systems and Comporium. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
