Florida Man Accused of Stealing $86,000 from Elderly Parents

A 67 year old Florida man is in custody after police accused him of stealing $86,000 from his elderly parents. Rafael Evelio Barcelo allegedly managed his parents' finances before moving large sums of money into his own business account and a personal bank account without their knowledge.

The couple discovered the theft during a bank visit following the father's health decline in late 2024. Investigators say the unauthorized withdrawals left the pair unable to pay for basic necessities like groceries, utilities, and property taxes. The parents told authorities they never authorized these transactions.

Barcelo now faces multiple felony charges including grand theft and organized fraud. He remains at the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center while the case proceeds through the legal system. This incident serves as a stark reminder for families to keep a close watch on financial accounts belonging to aging relatives to prevent potential exploitation.